Alexei Navalny is a prominent Russian opposition figure known for his anti-corruption activism and opposition to Vladimir Putin's regime. As a lawyer and political prisoner, he gained recognition for organizing anti-government demonstrations and advocating for political reforms. Navalny founded the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) to expose corruption within the government. His human rights work earned him accolades such as the Sakharov Prize and Amnesty International's recognition as a prisoner of conscience.
1947: Birth of Anatoly Navalny
Alexei Navalny's father, Anatoly Ivanovich Navalny, was born in 1947.
1954: Birth of Lyudmila Navalnaya
Alexei Navalny's mother, Lyudmila Ivanovna Navalnaya, was born in 1954
June 1976: Birth of Alexei Navalny
Alexei Navalny was born in June 1976.
1979: Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
Navalny drew a parallel between Russia's actions in Ukraine and the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, highlighting the negative consequences of such military interventions.
1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
In 1991, The Soviet Union was dissolved, leading to the independence of Ukraine and other former Soviet republics. This event holds significance as it marked the end of the Cold War and the emergence of a new geopolitical landscape.
1993: Navalny Graduates High School
Alexei Navalny graduated from Kalininets secondary school in 1993.
1994: Navalny's Parents Start Basket-Weaving Factory
Alexei Navalny's parents started a basket-weaving factory in 1994 and were still running it as of 2012.
1998: Navalny Begins Career as Corporate Lawyer
Alexei Navalny began working as a corporate lawyer for various Russian companies starting in 1998.
1998: Navalny Graduates Law School
Alexei Navalny graduated with a law degree from the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia in 1998.
1998: Navalny Resides in Maryino District
Beginning in 1998, Alexei Navalny primarily resided in a three-room apartment located in the Maryino District of southeast Moscow.
2000: Navalny Joins Yabloko Party
In 2000, Alexei Navalny joined the Russian United Democratic Party Yabloko.
2001: Navalny Completes Studies in Securities and Exchanges
Alexei Navalny completed his studies in securities and exchanges at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation in 2001.
2001: Navalny Listed as Yabloko Party Member
In 2001, Alexei Navalny was officially listed as a member of the Yabloko party.
2002: Navalny Elected to Yabloko Regional Council
In 2002, Alexei Navalny was elected to the regional council of the Moscow branch of the Yabloko party.
2003: Navalny Heads Yabloko Election Campaign
In 2003, Alexei Navalny headed the Moscow subdivision of the Yabloko party's election campaign for the parliamentary election.
April 2004: Navalny Becomes Chief of Staff for Yabloko Moscow
In April 2004, Alexei Navalny became Chief of Staff of the Moscow branch of the Yabloko party, a position he held until February 2007.
August 2005: Navalny's Early Political Engagement
In August 2005, Navalny's involvement in politics deepened as he joined the Social Council of the Central Administrative Okrug of Moscow. This council, formed in anticipation of the Moscow City Duma election later that year, saw Navalny participating as a candidate.
2006: Navalny Joins Yabloko Federal Council
From 2006 to 2007, Alexei Navalny served as a member of the Federal Council of the Yabloko party.
2006: Navalny and the 2006 Russian March
In 2006, Navalny, while a member of Yabloko, appealed to the Moscow City Hall to grant permission for the nationalist 2006 Russian March. However, he also clarified Yabloko's stance, condemning "any ethnic or racial hatred and any xenophobia" and urging the police to counter "any fascist, Nazi, xenophobic manifestations."
2006: Navalny's Early Involvement in "Russian March"
Navalny's participation in the "Russian march" dates back to 2006, highlighting his early involvement with Russian nationalist movements.
February 2007: Navalny Steps Down as Yabloko Chief of Staff
In February 2007, Alexei Navalny stepped down from his role as Chief of Staff of the Moscow branch of the Yabloko party.
December 2007: Navalny's Expulsion from Yabloko
In December 2007, following Yabloko's loss in the Russian State Duma elections, Navalny was expelled from the party. He had called for reforms, a leadership change, and criticized the party's direction, but his expulsion was attributed to his nationalist views and participation in the Russian March.
2007: Alleged Fraud Against Union of Right Forces
In 2007, Navalny was accused of defrauding the Union of Right Forces political party while heading the advertising company Allekt.
2007: Navalny Co-founds NAROD and Releases Controversial Videos
Navalny co-founded the National Russian Liberation Movement (NAROD) in 2007, advocating for stricter immigration policies and releasing controversial videos with anti-immigration messages.
2008: Oleg Navalny's Business Deal with Yves Rocher Vostok
Oleg Navalny, Alexei Navalny's brother, made a business proposal to Yves Rocher Vostok in 2008, leading to a contract between the two parties.
2008: Navalny and Brother Charged with Embezzlement
In 2008, Navalny and his brother, Oleg, were charged with embezzling 55 million rubles while working in a postal business between 2008 and 2011.
2008: Navalny's Initial Support for Russo-Georgian War and Transnistrian Independence
Navalny initially supported the 2008 Russo-Georgian War, making controversial remarks about Georgians, but later apologized for the insults. He also advocated for Transnistrian independence.
2008: Navalny Becomes Activist Shareholder in Russian Energy Companies
In 2008, Alexei Navalny became an activist shareholder in five major Russian oil and gas companies: Rosneft, Gazprom, Gazprom Neft, Lukoil, and Surgutneftegas. Investing 300,000 rubles, he aimed to increase transparency in their financial dealings, alleging high-level corruption and resistance to legal requirements for disclosure.
2009: Named "Person of the Year"
Alexei Navalny received recognition for his work in 2009 when he was named "Person of the Year" by two prominent Russian business publications, Vedomosti and Stock in Focus.
2009: Navalny Becomes an Advocate in Kirov Oblast
In 2009, Alexei Navalny became an advocate and a member of the advocate's chamber (bar association) of Kirov Oblast.
2009: Alleged Timber Misappropriation
Navalny's alleged involvement in the misappropriation of timber from Kirovles supposedly took place in 2009.
April 2010: Awarded the Finance Magazine Prize
In April 2010, Alexei Navalny's contributions to protecting the rights of minority shareholders earned him the prestigious Finance magazine prize.
October 2010: Navalny Wins Online Mayoral Poll
In October 2010, Alexei Navalny won an online poll for the mayor of Moscow, conducted by Kommersant and Gazeta.Ru, securing 45% of the votes. This victory highlighted his growing popularity and political influence.
November 2010: Navalny Publishes Transneft Documents, Launches RosPil Project
In November 2010, Alexei Navalny released confidential documents exposing alleged corruption within Transneft, a Russian state-controlled oil pipeline company. His blog post claimed that around US$4 billion was embezzled during the construction of the Eastern Siberia–Pacific Ocean oil pipeline. This action led him to launch the RosPil project, which uses public government procurement data to expose corrupt practices.
2010: Navalny Joins Moscow Advocate's Chamber
In 2010, due to his move to Moscow, Alexei Navalny ceased to be a member of the advocate's chamber of Kirov Oblast and became a member of the advocate's chamber of Moscow.
2010: Initial Reports of the Estate
The estate that would later be referred to as the "Putin Palace" was first reported on in 2010.
2010: Navalny Attends Yale World Fellows Program
In 2010, Alexei Navalny was awarded a scholarship to the Yale World Fellows program at Yale University, where he studied political science and world affairs.
February 2011: Navalny Labels United Russia a "Party of Crooks and Thieves"
In February 2011, Navalny publicly criticized the ruling United Russia party, calling it a "party of crooks and thieves," which later became a popular opposition slogan.
February 2011: Navalny Exposes Suspicious Real Estate Deal Between Hungary and Russia
In February 2011, Alexei Navalny exposed a questionable real estate transaction involving the Hungarian and Russian governments. His investigation revealed that Hungary sold a former embassy building in Moscow at a significantly lower price to an offshore company linked to Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg, who then resold it to the Russian government at an inflated price. This revelation resulted in the detention of three Hungarian officials and highlighted Navalny's dedication to uncovering high-level corruption.
May 2011: Public Opinion on Navalny and the Kirovles Case
In May 2011, public opinion on Navalny's Kirovles case was divided, with 20% believing he violated the law and 54% attributing it to his anti-corruption work.
May 2011: Navalny Launches RosYama to Address Infrastructure Issues
In May 2011, Alexei Navalny launched RosYama, a project enabling citizens to report potholes and monitor government responses to infrastructure complaints. This initiative demonstrated his commitment to utilizing technology for public accountability and addressing everyday concerns.
May 2011: Criminal Investigation Against Navalny Begins
Following Navalny's criticism of United Russia, the Russian government initiated a criminal investigation against him in May 2011, widely seen as retaliation for his activism.
December 2011: Navalny's Arrest and Imprisonment
Following accusations of electoral fraud in the December 2011 parliamentary elections, Navalny was arrested during protests in Moscow. He was sentenced to 15 days for defying a government official. This arrest, according to Alexei Venediktov, editor-in-chief of Echo of Moscow radio station, marked a turning point, transforming Navalny from an online leader to an offline one.
December 2011: Navalny's Call for Unity Against Putin
Upon his release from prison in December 2011, Navalny urged Russians to unite against Putin, anticipating Putin's attempt to secure victory in the upcoming March 2012 presidential election.
2011: Embezzlement Charges Against Navalny Brothers Conclude
The embezzlement charges against Navalny and his brother, Oleg, stemming from their work in a postal business concluded in 2011.
2011: Leaked Photographs of the Palace Interior
Photographs taken inside the alleged "Putin Palace" were leaked onto the internet in 2011.
2011: Parliamentary Election Results Shape Predictions
In 2011, the results of the parliamentary elections heavily influenced predictions for the Moscow mayoral election. These results, combined with sociological research, led to expectations of Sobyanin's victory and Navalny securing a significant but smaller percentage of votes.
2011: Navalny's Nationalist Stance and Participation in "Russian March"
In 2011, Navalny identified as a "nationalist democrat" and co-organized the "Russian march," a gathering of various Russian nationalist groups.
2011: Recognized as a Global Thinker
In 2011, Alexei Navalny gained international recognition when Foreign Policy magazine named him one of the FP Top 100 Global Thinkers for his work on government transparency, an honor he received again in 2012.
February 2012: Allegations of Financial Misconduct
In February 2012, Alexei Navalny raised concerns about potential financial mismanagement within the Chechen Interior Ministry, suggesting that federal funds were not being used transparently.
March 2012: Navalny Leads Anti-Putin Rally
After Putin's election as president in March 2012, Navalny played a key role in leading an anti-Putin rally at Moscow's Pushkinskaya Square. The rally drew a significant crowd, and Navalny was detained by authorities for a period before being released.
March 2012: Navalny Leads Anti-Putin Rally
After Putin's election as president in March 2012, Navalny played a key role in leading an anti-Putin rally at Moscow's Pushkinskaya Square. The rally drew a significant crowd, and Navalny was detained by authorities for a period before being released.
May 2012: Navalny and Udaltsov Arrested at Anti-Putin Rally
On May 8, 2012, the day of Putin's inauguration, Navalny and Sergei Udaltsov were arrested at an anti-Putin rally at Clean Ponds. Both received 15-day jail sentences and were subsequently designated prisoners of conscience by Amnesty International.
June 2012: Navalny and the Formation of "The People's Alliance"
In June 2012, Navalny's associates announced the formation of a new political party rooted in e-democracy. While supportive, Navalny clarified he wouldn't immediately participate in the project.
July 2012: Embezzlement Charges and Investigation
In July 2012, the Investigative Committee charged Navalny with embezzlement, alleging his involvement in stealing timber from the state-owned company Kirovles in 2009, during his time as an advisor to the Kirov governor.
December 2012: Navalny Expresses Support for "The People's Alliance"
By December 2012, Navalny publicly declared his support for "The People's Alliance," referring to it as "my party." However, he refrained from formally joining due to ongoing criminal cases against him.
December 2012: Navalny Accused of Fraud
In December 2012, the Investigative Committee of Russia alleged that Navalny, as head of the advertising company Allekt, defrauded the Union of Right Forces political party in 2007.
December 2012: Yves Rocher Vostok Investigation Initiated
In December 2012, an investigation was launched into the business dealings between Yves Rocher Vostok, Oleg Navalny's company Glavpodsiska, and their subcontractors.
2012: First Inclusion in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
In 2012, Alexei Navalny achieved international recognition when he was named one of Time Magazine's 100 most influential people for his activism and fight against corruption. This marked his first appearance on the prestigious list.
2012: Navalny Sentenced, Then Freed on Bail
In 2012, Alexei Navalny faced embezzlement and fraud charges. Despite his initial sentencing to a five-year prison term, the prosecution requested his release on bail. This decision, potentially influenced by the Kremlin to legitimize the election, allowed Navalny to continue his campaign.
2012: Kirovles Sues Navalny
In late 2012, Kirovles filed a lawsuit against Navalny for 16.1 million rubles in declared pecuniary damages related to the 2012-2013 trial.
2012: Named One of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Further solidifying his global influence, Alexei Navalny was listed as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2012, the sole Russian representative on the list.
April 2013: Loeb & Loeb LLP Report on Navalny's Prosecutions
In April 2013, Loeb & Loeb LLP, a law firm, released a report analyzing the prosecutions against Alexei Navalny in Russia. The report concluded that the Russian government was misusing legal processes to silence Navalny, who was a political opponent.
April 2013: Kirovles Trial Begins
The trial concerning the Kirovles case began in Kirov in April 2013.
April 2013: "The People's Alliance" Registration Attempts
In April 2013, the party initiated the formal registration process. However, their application was suspended, and in July 2013, they were denied registration, allegedly due to the absence of all founders during the congress despite their signatures being on the documents.
May 2013: Sergey Sobyanin Advocates for Elected Mayor
In May 2013, Moscow's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, expressed his preference for an elected mayoral position over an appointed one, highlighting the benefits for the city.
May 2013: Shifting Public Opinion on the Kirovles Case
By May 2013, public opinion shifted slightly, with 28% believing Navalny violated the law in the Kirovles case and 47% attributing it to his anti-corruption efforts.
July 2013: Public Opinion on Another Criminal Case
In July 2013, 13% of Russians found the result of another criminal case against Navalny unfair and believed he was innocent, while 17% found the verdict too harsh.
July 2013: "The People's Alliance" Denied Registration
In April 2013, the party initiated the formal registration process. However, their application was suspended, and in July 2013, they were denied registration, allegedly due to the absence of all founders during the congress despite their signatures being on the documents.
September 2013: Continued Shift in Public Opinion
In September 2013, opinions continued to shift, with 35% believing in Navalny's guilt and 45% attributing the case to his activism.
September 2013: Navalny's Decision to Join "The People's Alliance"
Following the mayoral election, Navalny announced his intention to join "The People's Alliance" in September 2013 and even considered leading the party.
October 2013: Suspension of Prison Sentence
Navalny's five-year prison sentence was suspended in October 2013, offering some relief but still impacting his political activities.
October 2013: Mixed Reactions to Navalny's Mayoral Election Result
Alexei Navalny's second-place finish in the 2013 Moscow mayoral election sparked diverse reactions. While some, like Nezavisimaya Gazeta, acknowledged his transformation from a blogger into a politician and his potential presidential candidacy, others, including The Washington Post, viewed it as a strategic move by the incumbent to demoralize the opposition. Putin's press secretary downplayed Navalny's political stature despite the result.
November 2013: Navalny Loses Advocate Status
In November 2013, following the judgement in the Kirovles case, Alexei Navalny was deprived of his advocate status.
November 2013: Navalny Elected Leader of "The People's Alliance"
In November 2013, Navalny was elected as the leader of "The People's Alliance," solidifying his role within the party.
2013: Ranked Among Top "World Thinkers"
Alexei Navalny's influence continued to be recognized in 2013 when he secured the 48th spot in a global online poll by Prospect magazine, identifying the world's leading thinkers.
2013: Original Sentencing in Kirovles Case
The initial sentencing in the Kirovles case, which was later reissued, took place in 2013.
2013: Original Kirovles Case Sentencing
The original sentencing in the Kirovles case, which was later overturned, occurred in 2013.
2013: Navalny's Response to Ethnic Riots in Moscow
Following ethnic riots in Moscow sparked by a migrant's crime in 2013, Navalny expressed sympathy for anti-immigration sentiments but later emphasized the importance of dialogue and democratic solutions.
2013: Navalny Receives Suspended Sentence, Runs for Moscow Mayor
In 2013, Alexei Navalny received a suspended sentence for embezzlement, a case widely seen as politically motivated. Despite this, he ran in the Moscow mayoral election and secured second place with 27% of the vote.
2013: Initial Sentencing in Kirovles Case
In 2013, Alexei Navalny was initially sentenced in the Kirovles case, a verdict that would later be annulled by the Supreme Court following the European Court of Human Rights' (ECHR) ruling.
2013: Navalny's Recognition and Potential Support
In 2013, Alexei Navalny had a 37% recognition rate among the Russian population, according to a Levada Center poll. Of those familiar with him, 14% expressed potential support for a presidential bid, demonstrating his appeal as an alternative political figure.
2013: Court Orders Navalny to Pay Kirovles
In 2013, a court ruled that Navalny and two other defendants were required to pay the 16.1 million ruble sum to Kirovles.
January 2014: Second Registration Attempt and Name Change to "Progress Party"
The party, now under Navalny's leadership, reapplied for registration in January 2014. However, their application faced another obstacle due to naming conflicts, leading to a name change to "Progress Party" in February 2014.
February 2014: House Arrest and Travel Restrictions
Navalny was placed under house arrest in February 2014, facing restrictions on his communication and movement, a situation he believed to be politically motivated.
February 2014: Second Registration Attempt and Name Change to "Progress Party"
The party, now under Navalny's leadership, reapplied for registration in January 2014. However, their application faced another obstacle due to naming conflicts, leading to a name change to "Progress Party" in February 2014.
March 2014: Navalny Urges Sanctions Against Putin Allies After Crimea Annexation
Following Russia's annexation of Crimea in March 2014, Navalny called for further sanctions against Putin's close associates and businesses, criticizing the ineffectiveness of previous sanctions.
September 2014: Progress Party's Registration Challenges
By September 2014, the Progress Party, having successfully registered as a party, was in the process of registering regional branches. They claimed to have registered 43 branches, but an anonymous source suggested registrations beyond the initial six-month window wouldn't be considered. Navalny's team countered, stating the six-month timeframe was legally extended due to ongoing appeals and registration suspensions.
September 2014: Further Changes in Public Opinion
By September 2014, public opinion regarding the Kirovles case had further evolved to 37% believing Navalny was guilty and 38% attributing the case to his anti-corruption work.
October 2014: Navalny Proposes Referendum on Crimea's Future
In October 2014, Navalny suggested a new referendum to decide the fate of Crimea while criticizing Russia's involvement in the Donbas conflict.
November 2014: Navalny Offered Co-Chairman Position
In November 2014, following the mayoral election, Alexei Navalny received an offer for the position of fourth co-chairman of RPR-PARNAS.
December 2014: Guilty Verdict and Sentencing in Yves Rocher Case
In December 2014, Alexei Navalny and his brother, Oleg, were found guilty of fraud and money laundering in the Yves Rocher case. Alexei received a suspended sentence, while Oleg was sentenced to prison, sparking protests in Moscow.
2014: Second Suspended Sentence for Navalny
Alexei Navalny received a second suspended sentence for embezzlement in 2014. This case was also widely considered politically motivated, aiming to prevent him from participating in future elections.
2014: Navalny Receives Suspended Sentence in Yves Rocher Case
Navalny received a suspended sentence in 2014 in relation to the Yves Rocher case, a case he claimed was politically motivated.
2014: Activist Timur Kuashev Dies
Activist Timur Kuashev passed away in 2014. Later investigations linked his death to the unit that was tracking Alexei Navalny.
January 2015: Declining Support for Navalny in Another Criminal Case
By January 2015, only 5% of Russians believed Navalny was innocent in another criminal case, and 9% found the verdict too harsh, showing a decline in support for him.
February 2015: Navalny Prepares for 2016 Elections
In February 2015, Alexei Navalny, at a party convention, announced preparations for the 2016 elections. He emphasized the party's commitment to nationwide activity, even in areas like Crimea where opposition presence was limited.
February 2015: Nemtsov's Assassination and Coalition Acceleration
In February 2015, the assassination of Boris Nemtsov, who was working on a coalition project involving Navalny, accelerated the formation of an electoral bloc between RPR-PARNAS and Navalny's Progress Party.
April 2015: Coalition Building and Party Deregistration
In April 2015, Navalny's party initiated a coalition with other democratic parties. However, the Ministry of Justice revoked the party's registration, claiming insufficient regional branches. The party challenged the decision, deeming it illegal.
July 2015: RPR-PARNAS Restructures, Kasyanov Sole Leader
In July 2015, RPR-PARNAS underwent changes, with Mikhail Kasyanov becoming the sole leader and the party being renamed PARNAS. The possibility of Navalny and Khodorkovsky joining as co-chairmen in the future remained open.
July 2015: Informal Prohibition on Mentioning Navalny's Name
In July 2015, sources revealed an informal ban within the Kremlin preventing senior Russian officials from mentioning Alexei Navalny by name, allegedly to avoid boosting his popularity. While the Kremlin denied such a ban, the act of avoiding his name in the denial itself spoke volumes about the perceived threat Navalny posed to the establishment.
October 2015: Navalny Pays Compensation in Yves Rocher Case
In October 2015, Navalny paid a compensation of 2.9 million rubles and requested an installment plan for the remaining amount in relation to the Yves Rocher case, which he maintained was a "frame-up".
2015: Awarded the "Prize of the Platform of European Memory and Conscience"
In 2015, Alexei Navalny and his brother, Oleg, were jointly awarded the "Prize of the Platform of European Memory and Conscience" for their courageous stand and sacrifices in upholding democratic values and freedoms in Russia.
2015: Activist Ruslan Magomedragimov Dies
Activist Ruslan Magomedragimov died in 2015. Subsequent investigations connected his death to the unit responsible for tracking Alexei Navalny.
February 2016: European Court of Human Rights Ruling
The European Court of Human Rights ruled in February 2016 that Russia had violated Navalny's right to a fair trial, ordering the Russian government to compensate Navalny for legal costs and damages.
September 2016: State Duma Elections Approach
In September 2016, State Duma elections were scheduled, with RPR-PARNAS, no longer required to collect signatures due to Nemtsov's previous mandate, planning to select candidates through primary elections.
November 2016: Supreme Court Overturns 2013 Sentence
In November 2016, Russia's Supreme Court overturned the 2013 sentence in the Kirovles case, sending the verdict back to the Leninsky District Court in Kirov for review.
December 2016: Navalny Announces Presidential Candidacy
In December 2016, amidst growing popular support, Alexei Navalny officially announced his intention to run for president.
2016: Navalny Distances Himself from Past Immigration Stances
Since 2016, Navalny has shifted away from his previous strong stance on immigration, indicating a change in his political approach.
2016: Opposition to Russian Intervention in Syria
In 2016, Alexei Navalny expressed his opposition to Russia's military involvement in the Syrian Civil War. He argued that Russia should focus on its internal issues rather than engaging in foreign conflicts, also criticizing Russia's support for Bashar al-Assad's regime.
2016: Preparing for the 2016 Elections
In 2016, Navalny's party was preparing for the upcoming elections and planned to select candidates through primary elections.
February 2017: Navalny Sentenced, Continues Campaign
In February 2017, despite being re-sentenced to a five-year suspended sentence in the Kirovles case, Navalny decided to continue his presidential campaign, challenging the court's decision and asserting his constitutional right to run.
February 2017: Leninsky District Court Reissues Sentence
In February 2017, the Leninsky district court of Kirov reissued the 2013 sentence, giving Navalny a five-year suspended sentence. Navalny planned to appeal the decision.
March 2017: "He Is Not Dimon to You" Investigation and Anti-Corruption Rallies
In March 2017, Navalny published an investigation titled "He Is Not Dimon to You," which accused Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev of corruption. This led to anti-corruption rallies organized by Navalny in various Russian cities.
April 2017: Navalny Attacked with Chemical Dye
In April 2017, Alexei Navalny was attacked outside his office and sprayed in the face with brilliant green dye mixed with a caustic chemical. This attack, which Navalny blamed on the Kremlin, caused chemical burns and resulted in him losing 80% of the sight in his right eye. He had been attacked in a similar manner previously, earlier that spring.
April 2017: Navalny's Rising Recognition and Trust
By April 2017, Alexei Navalny's recognition among Russians had risen to 55%, with 18% indicating potential support for him in a presidential election, as per the Levada Center. This upward trajectory continued, with another Levada Center poll in August 2020 revealing that 4% of respondents trusted Navalny the most among politicians, doubling from the previous month.
June 2017: Named One of Time Magazine's 25 Most Influential People on the Internet
In June 2017, Alexei Navalny's online presence and influence were acknowledged when Time magazine included him in their list of the 25 most influential people on the internet.
July 2017: Navalny Released from Jail After Protests
In July 2017, Alexei Navalny was released from jail after serving 25 days of a 30-day sentence. He had been arrested in Moscow for his role in organizing and participating in protests deemed illegal by the Russian government.
September 2017: Human Rights Watch Accuses Russia of Interfering with Navalny's Campaign
In September 2017, Human Rights Watch accused Russian authorities of interfering with Alexei Navalny's presidential campaign through harassment and intimidation tactics. The Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe also called upon Russia to allow Navalny to run for office.
October 2017: Navalny Jailed for Calling for Protests
Alexei Navalny was sentenced to 20 days in jail in October 2017 for urging people to participate in protests that did not receive prior approval from the Russian government. This further highlights the government's crackdown on dissent and Navalny's ongoing challenges to their authority.
October 2017: European Court of Human Rights Rules Against Navalny's Conviction
In October 2017, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled that Alexei Navalny's conviction for fraud and money laundering was "based on an unforeseeable application of criminal law" and the proceedings were unfair and arbitrary.
December 2017: Named "Politician of the Year"
Alexei Navalny's political work continued to garner recognition, leading to him being named "Politician of the Year 2017" by Vedomosti.
December 2017: Navalny Barred from Running for President
In December 2017, Russia's Central Election Commission prohibited Alexei Navalny from running for president in the 2018 election, citing a prior corruption conviction. This decision, condemned by the European Union, led Navalny to call for a boycott of the election. His subsequent appeal against this ruling was rejected by the Russian Supreme Court in January 2018.
2017: ECHR Rules Navalny's Conviction Unfair
The European Court of Human Rights ruled in 2017 that Navalny's conviction in the Yves Rocher case was unfair.
2017: Navalny's Team Supports Same-Sex Marriage
Leonid Volkov, Navalny's chief of staff, stated in 2017 that their team supports the legalization of same-sex marriage.
2017: Navalny Previously Treated for Chemical Attack
In 2017, Alexei Navalny received medical treatment from ophthalmologist Anastasia Vasilyeva following a chemical attack. This incident is relevant because Vasilyeva later disputed the "allergy" diagnosis when Navalny was hospitalized under suspicious circumstances in July 2019, suggesting a possible link between the two events.
January 2018: Navalny Leads Election Boycott Protests, Faces Arrest
In January 2018, Alexei Navalny spearheaded protests urging a boycott of the upcoming Russian presidential election. He was arrested and released the same day, facing potential charges for organizing unauthorized demonstrations. This event led to numerous arrests across the country, with two of Navalny's associates receiving short jail sentences for their involvement.
January 2018: Imprisonment for Staging Protests
Navalny faced imprisonment in January 2018 for his role in organizing protests.
February 2018: Navalny Accused of Assaulting Officer During Protest
In February 2018, the Russian government accused Alexei Navalny of assaulting a police officer during the January protests against the presidential election. This accusation came after he was arrested and released, pending trial, for allegedly calling for unauthorized demonstrations.
August 2018: Accusations Against Viktor Zolotov
In August 2018, Navalny accused Viktor Zolotov, the head of the National Guard of Russia, of embezzling at least $29 million from procurement contracts.
September 2018: Navalny Jailed Again After Release
Immediately upon his release from a 30-day jail sentence in September 2018 for disobeying police during a May protest, Alexei Navalny was rearrested. He was subsequently convicted of organizing illegal demonstrations and sentenced to another 20 days in jail, highlighting the relentless pressure and legal challenges he faced for his activism.
November 2018: ECHR Upholds Ruling on Navalny's Case
In November 2018, the Grand Chamber of the ECHR upheld its previous decision regarding the arbitrariness and unfairness of Navalny's conviction.
2018: Navalny Criticizes Putin Over Ukrainian Church Independence
Navalny condemned Putin's handling of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church's autonomy in 2018, viewing it as detrimental to Russia's influence and calling Putin an "enemy of the Russian World."
2018: Barred from Presidential Election
Alexei Navalny was barred from running in the 2018 Russian presidential election.
2018: Navalny Calls for Election Boycott After Presidential Run Barred
After being barred from running for president in 2018, Alexei Navalny urged Russians to boycott the election in protest. He argued his removal from the race disenfranchised millions of voters.
2018: Navalny: A Leading Contender Against Putin
Leading up to the 2018 Russian presidential election, Alexei Navalny was widely recognized as the most prominent challenger to Vladimir Putin, as highlighted by organizations like Freedom House and The Economist. Navalny's campaign included a series of anti-corruption rallies across Russia and even garnered support internationally.
April 2019: Moskovsky Shkolnik Sues Navalny
In April 2019, Moskovsky Shkolnik, a company linked to businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin, filed a lawsuit against Navalny regarding his allegations about poor quality food supplied to schools.
July 2019: Navalny Hospitalized After Arrest, Disputes "Allergy" Diagnosis
In July 2019, during protests surrounding the Moscow City Duma election, Alexei Navalny was arrested and jailed for 30 days after an initial 10-day sentence. He was hospitalized with severe eye and skin damage, diagnosed as an "allergy." However, his ophthalmologist disputed this diagnosis, suggesting exposure to "damaging effects of undetermined chemicals" and raising suspicions of poisoning. Despite objections from his physician, he was discharged and returned to prison. This event triggered attacks on his supporters and journalists, leading to further detentions. In response, Navalny launched the "Smart Voting" project.
September 2019: Daughter Begins Studies at Stanford University
In September 2019, Alexei Navalny's daughter, Darya (Dasha) Navalnaya, embarked on her undergraduate studies at Stanford University.
October 2019: Navalny Ordered to Pay Damages to Moskovsky Shkolnik
In October 2019, the Moscow Arbitration Court ruled in favor of Moskovsky Shkolnik, ordering Navalny to pay 29.2 million rubles in damages.
2019: Named "Politician of the Year"
Alexei Navalny was recognized for his political impact in 2019 when readers of Vedomosti voted him as "Politician of the Year."
2019: Politician Nikita Isayev Dies
Politician Nikita Isayev died in 2019. Later investigations uncovered a link between his death and the unit that had been tracking Alexei Navalny.
April 2020: Yandex Places Negative Commentary About Navalny
In April 2020, Yandex, a Russian search engine, was found to be artificially promoting negative commentary about Navalny in its search results. Yandex claimed it was part of an "experiment" and later reverted the changes.
June 2020: Slander Charges and Political Motivations
Alexei Navalny faced slander charges in June 2020 after criticizing individuals involved in a pro-government video. Navalny maintained his innocence, claiming political motivations behind the charges.
June 2020: Navalny Voices Support for Black Lives Matter
In June 2020, Navalny publicly supported the Black Lives Matter movement, demonstrating solidarity with the fight against racism.
August 2020: Navalny Falls Ill on Flight
On August 20, 2020, Alexei Navalny became critically ill during a flight from Tomsk to Moscow. The sudden change in his condition forced an emergency landing in Omsk, where he was hospitalized.
August 2020: Poisoning and Hospitalization of Navalny
In August 2020, Alexei Navalny was hospitalized in a serious condition after being poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent. He was evacuated to Berlin for treatment and accused Putin of orchestrating the poisoning. An investigation implicated agents from the Federal Security Service.
August 2020: Prigozhin Seeks Enforcement of Court Decision Against Navalny
In August 2020, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his intention to enforce a court decision requiring Navalny, Lyubov Sobol, and the Anti-Corruption Foundation to pay 88 million rubles in damages to Moskovsky Shkolnik.
September 2020: Public Opinion on Navalny's Activities
A Levada Center poll in September 2020 revealed that 20% of Russians approved of Alexei Navalny's activities, while 50% disapproved. These figures, alongside mixed sentiments ranging from respect to dislike among those familiar with him, underscored the polarizing nature of his activism and political stance.
December 2020: Navalny Releases Video About Poisoning
In December 2020, Navalny released a video where he revealed details about his poisoning, alleging that the poison was planted on his clothing. The information was obtained during a phone call where Navalny impersonated a Russian security official and spoke to a chemical weapons expert.
December 2020: Russia's Laws and International Treaties
Russia passed laws in December 2020 prioritizing its constitution over international rulings, signaling a move towards legal isolation.
January 2021: Investigative Report Links Unit Tracking Navalny to Other Deaths
In January 2021, an investigative report linked the unit that had been tracking Navalny to the deaths of other individuals, including activists and a politician, raising suspicions about potential foul play.
January 2021: Navalny's Lawyers Seek Release
Navalny's lawyers appealed to the European Court of Human Rights for his release in January 2021, citing concerns for his safety.
January 2021: Navalny Detained and Court Hearing Scheduled
On January 18, 2021, a court ordered Navalny to be detained until February 15th for violating his parole. The hearing, conducted in a makeshift courtroom within the police station, was described by Navalny as "ultimate lawlessness".
January 2021: Allegations Against Vladimir Putin and the "Putin Palace"
Two days after being detained upon his return to Russia in January 2021, Navalny and the FBK published an investigation accusing President Vladimir Putin of corruption, alleging the use of illicit funds to construct a lavish estate known as the "Putin Palace."
January 2021: Navalny Arrested Upon Return to Russia
Upon his return to Russia from Germany, where he had sought medical treatment after a poisoning attempt, Alexei Navalny was arrested in January 2021 and subsequently imprisoned, initially in the IK-2 penal colony and later transferred to the IK-6 maximum-security facility in Melekhovo.
February 2021: Arrival at Pokrov Correctional Colony
Navalny was transferred to the Pokrov correctional colony in February 2021, known for its harsh conditions.
February 2021: European Court Ruling and Russia's Defiance
In February 2021, the European Court of Human Rights demanded Navalny's release, but Russian authorities refused to comply, highlighting growing tensions between Russia and international bodies.
February 2021: Awarded the Boris Nemtsov Prize for Courage and Scenic Viewpoint Established
Following his imprisonment in February 2021, Alexei Navalny received the Boris Nemtsov Prize for Courage, a testament to his bravery. Adding to this tribute, a scenic viewpoint named in his honor was established in Prague, offering a direct line of sight to the Russian Embassy.
February 2021: Prison Sentence and Organizations Designated as Extremist
In February 2021, Alexei Navalny's suspended sentence was replaced with a prison sentence of over 2.5 years. His organizations were subsequently designated as extremist and liquidated.
February 2021: Amnesty International Designates and Briefly Revokes Navalny's Prisoner of Conscience Status
Amnesty International named Navalny a prisoner of conscience in February 2021, only to revoke the designation shortly after due to complaints about past xenophobic comments he had made.
March 2021: International Sanctions on Russia
In March 2021, the EU and the US imposed sanctions on Russian officials in response to Navalny's poisoning and imprisonment, escalating the diplomatic standoff.
March 2021: Allegations of Torture and Health Concerns
Navalny accused Russian authorities of torture through sleep deprivation in March 2021, raising serious concerns about his well-being.
April 2021: Request to Designate Navalny's Organizations as Extremist
In April 2021, the Moscow prosecutor's office sought to label organizations linked to Navalny as extremist, signaling a further crackdown on dissent and opposition.
April 2021: Navalny's Network Targeted
In April 2021, while Navalny was imprisoned, Moscow's prosecutor office ordered his network of regional offices, including those of the FBK, to cease their activities. This was pending a court ruling on whether to designate them as extremist organizations. The move was condemned by Germany and Amnesty International. Later that month, Navalny's team announced the network would be dissolved in advance of the court ruling.
April 2021: Hunger Strike and Arrests
Navalny began a hunger strike in March 2021, demanding proper medical care. The situation escalated in April 2021 when his doctors and journalists were arrested outside the prison, drawing international condemnation.
April 2021: Hospital Transfer and End of Hunger Strike
Navalny was transferred to a prison hospital in April 2021 and ended his hunger strike after his demands for medical attention were partially met.
April 2021: Urgent Medical Attention and Open Letter
Navalny's health deteriorated in April 2021, prompting his doctors to demand immediate medical access. An open letter signed by Russian politicians urged Putin to intervene, highlighting the high stakes and potential consequences.
May 2021: Designated as a Prisoner of Conscience by Amnesty International
In May 2021, Amnesty International recognized Alexei Navalny as a prisoner of conscience, asserting that his detention was primarily politically motivated due to his criticism of the Russian government.
June 2021: Awarded the Moral Courage Award at the Geneva Summit
In June 2021, Alexei Navalny's daughter accepted the Moral Courage Award at the Geneva Summit for Human Rights and Democracy on his behalf. Navalny dedicated the prize to political prisoners.
June 2021: Navalny's Organizations Deemed Extremist
In June 2021, a Moscow court ruled to designate Alexei Navalny's political network, including his headquarters and the FBK, as extremist organizations. As a result, they were liquidated, and their assets were confiscated. The ruling was upheld by higher courts in August 2021 and March 2022.
June 2021: Continued Censorship
Despite the end of the hunger strike, Navalny continued to face censorship in June 2021, with limitations on his access to information.
August 2021: Court Upholds Extremist Designation
In August 2021, the First Appellate Ordinary Court in Moscow upheld the June 2021 decision that designated Alexei Navalny's political organizations as extremist. This ruling solidified the earlier decision and further restricted Navalny's political activities.
September 2021: Included in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Alexei Navalny was once again recognized for his global influence in September 2021 when he was featured in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people, marking his second appearance on the list after his inclusion in 2012.
September 2021: Awarded the Knight of Freedom Award
In a testament to his commitment to freedom, Alexei Navalny received the Knight of Freedom Award from the Casimir Pulaski Foundation in September 2021.
October 2021: Awarded the Sakharov Prize
In October 2021, Alexei Navalny was honored with the Sakharov Prize, the European Parliament's highest tribute to individuals or organizations safeguarding human rights. The award recognized his relentless fight against corruption within Vladimir Putin's regime, acknowledging the personal sacrifices he endured, including imprisonment and threats to his life.
October 2021: Navalny Designated as "Terrorist" and "Extremist"
In October 2021, while still imprisoned, Alexei Navalny revealed that the Russian prison commission had designated him as both a "terrorist" and "extremist." This designation further escalated the government's crackdown on Navalny and his supporters.
December 2021: Appeal Filed Against Extremist Designation
In December 2021, Alexei Navalny, along with the Anti-Corruption Foundation, Citizens' Rights Protection Foundation, and 18 individuals, filed an appeal to overturn the previous court decisions that designated their organizations as extremist. This marked a continued effort to challenge the Russian government's actions against Navalny and his allies.
2021: Nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize
Alexei Navalny's contributions to peace were recognized in 2021 when he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize by multiple members of the Norwegian Parliament, a nomination supported by a petition signed by over 38,000 people.
2021: Navalny Recognized as Political Prisoner
In 2021, Human Rights Centre Memorial and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) recognized Alexei Navalny as a political prisoner.
January 2022: Navalny and Aides Added to Terrorist List
In January 2022, the Russian government escalated its crackdown on Alexei Navalny and his supporters by officially adding them to the country's list of "terrorists and extremists." This move significantly increased the legal risks and restrictions faced by those associated with Navalny.
February 2022: Navalny Compares Donbas Recognition to Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
In February 2022, Navalny criticized Russia's recognition of the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, comparing it to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and framing it as a distraction tactic.
February 2022: Navalny Condemns Ukraine Invasion
During his trial in February 2022, Alexei Navalny publicly condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine, calling it a tragedy and a distraction tactic by the government. His statement, delivered in court, highlighted his opposition to the war and his belief that it would have devastating consequences.
February 2022: New Charges and Trial Against Navalny
In February 2022, while already imprisoned, Alexei Navalny faced new charges of fraud and contempt of court, carrying a potential sentence of 10 to 15 years. The charges, which alleged the theft of donations and insulting a judge, were widely condemned by international observers as politically motivated.
March 2022: Additional Prison Sentence
Alexei Navalny was sentenced to an additional nine years in prison in March 2022 after being found guilty of embezzlement and contempt of court in a trial described as a sham by Amnesty International.
March 2022: Final Appeal Rejected, Extremist Label Stands
In March 2022, the Second Cassation Ordinary Court delivered a final blow to Navalny's appeal, rejecting all arguments and upholding the previous rulings that labeled his organizations as extremist. This effectively ended the legal avenues for reversing the designations.
March 2022: Navalny Calls for Protests Against Ukraine Invasion
On March 2, 2022, Navalny urged Russians to protest against the invasion of Ukraine, denouncing the war and Putin's leadership.
March 2022: Navalny Found Guilty, Sentenced to 9 Years
On March 22, 2022, Alexei Navalny was found guilty of contempt of court and embezzlement and sentenced to nine years in a maximum-security prison. The trial and sentencing were widely condemned by international human rights organizations as a sham.
April 2022: Navalny Condemns Russian State Media's War Propaganda
In April 2022, Navalny denounced the Russian state media's portrayal of the war in Ukraine, calling for accountability and labeling those involved as potential war criminals.
May 2022: Navalny's 9-Year Sentence Upheld
In May 2022, a Moscow court upheld the nine-year prison sentence handed down to Alexei Navalny in March of the same year. This decision further diminished his chances of release and solidified the Russian government's efforts to silence him.
May 2022: New Extremism Charges Against Navalny
In a further escalation of legal actions against Alexei Navalny, he was officially notified in May 2022 of new extremism charges, potentially adding another 15 years to his prison sentence. These charges highlighted the ongoing campaign to silence and punish him for his opposition to the Russian government.
June 2022: Navalny's Appeal Against "Extremist" and "Terrorist" Designation Denied
In June 2022, Alexei Navalny's appeal against the "extremist" and "terrorist" designations imposed on him was rejected. This legal setback solidified his status as a high-security prisoner facing significant restrictions and potential for further charges.
June 2022: Navalny Transferred to Maximum Security Prison
In mid-June 2022, Alexei Navalny was transferred to the notorious IK-6 penal colony, a maximum-security prison in Melekhovo, Vladimir Oblast, known for its harsh conditions and alleged use of torture.
July 2022: Navalny Relaunches Anti-Corruption Foundation Internationally
In July 2022, despite his imprisonment, Alexei Navalny demonstrated resilience by relaunching his Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an international organization. The organization aimed to continue its work exposing corruption and holding those in power accountable, even with Navalny behind bars.
September 2022: Navalny Placed in Solitary Confinement, Privileges Revoked
In September 2022, Alexei Navalny faced further isolation and punishment as he was placed in solitary confinement for the fourth time in just over a month. The Russian authorities also revoked his attorney-client privilege, accusing him of continuing his activism from prison.
October 2022: Navalny's Allies Relaunch Regional Political Network
In October 2022, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to Navalny's cause, his allies took the initiative to relaunch his regional political network. This move aimed to revitalize opposition efforts and challenge the Russian government's actions, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.
November 2022: Navalny Placed in Permanent Solitary Confinement
In November 2022, Alexei Navalny's prison conditions worsened as he was placed in permanent solitary confinement. The Russian authorities justified this move with minor infractions, further highlighting the harsh and punitive treatment he endured.
2022: Criticism of Russian Mobilization
During court hearings in 2022, while imprisoned, Alexei Navalny openly criticized the Russian government's mobilization efforts, questioning the need to draft civilians when there were already numerous security personnel available. He deemed it a "historic crime" and urged everyone to speak out against it.
2022: Navalny's Call for Action and Sacrifice
Navalny declared in 2022 that Russians should be willing to face consequences and make sacrifices to prevent war, urging them to take a stand.
2022: Awarded U.S. Prize for Civil Courage
Alexei Navalny received the U.S. Prize for Civil Courage in 2022, recognizing his exceptional bravery and commitment to democratic values.
January 2023: Navalny Falls Ill in Solitary Confinement
In January 2023, Alexei Navalny fell ill with the flu while in solitary confinement. Over 400 Russian doctors signed an open letter to President Putin, demanding an end to the "abuse" of Navalny and urging authorities to provide him with basic medication. Despite their plea, Navalny was transferred to a stricter form of imprisonment for the maximum term of six months.
February 2023: Condemnation of the Ukraine War and Call for Reparations
In February 2023, Alexei Navalny publicly condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine, attributing it to Putin's desire for territorial expansion at the cost of Russia's future. He advocated for the withdrawal of Russian troops, recognition of Ukraine's 1991 borders, and payment of reparations.
August 2023: Navalny Sentenced to Additional 19 Years
In August 2023, Alexei Navalny was sentenced to an additional 19 years in a "special regime" colony on charges related to extremism and "rehabilitating Nazi ideology". This sentence, delivered in a closed-doors trial, was expected by Navalny, who had referred to it as a "Stalinist" sentence. This verdict meant that his release date would have been December 2038.
August 2023: Further Sentencing and Transfer
In August 2023, Alexei Navalny was sentenced to an additional 19 years in prison on extremism charges.
October 2023: Navalny's Lawyers Detained
In October 2023, three of Alexei Navalny's lawyers - Vadim Kobzev, Igor Sergunin, and Alexei Liptser - were detained on charges of participating in an "extremist group." Navalny drew parallels to the Soviet era, highlighting the targeting of both political activists and their legal representation.
December 2023: Disappearance and Reappearance in Arctic Circle Colony
Alexei Navalny went missing from prison for almost three weeks in December 2023 before resurfacing in a corrective colony in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug in the Arctic Circle.
December 2023: Navalny's Disappearance and Transfer
In December 2023, Alexei Navalny's aides lost contact with him for six days after his removal from his prison. This occurred after his 19-year sentence extension and amidst the 2024 Russian presidential election campaign. He was later confirmed to have been transferred from IK-6 prison camp in Vladimir Oblast to the IK-3 "special regime" colony ("Polar Wolf") in Kharp, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
2023: Documentary Film "Navalny" Wins Academy Award
The 2023 documentary film "Navalny," directed by Daniel Roher, which chronicles Alexei Navalny's life and activism, earned critical acclaim, winning both the British Academy Film Award and the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
February 2024: Death of Alexei Navalny
Alexei Navalny died in February 2024 at the age of 47. His death sparked protests in Russia and internationally, and accusations were made against Russian authorities.
February 2024: Call to Protest During the 2024 Russian Presidential Election
In February 2024, Alexei Navalny and his allies urged their supporters to participate in a protest against President Putin and the invasion of Ukraine. They proposed a coordinated effort to vote against Putin during the 2024 Russian presidential election.
February 2024: Navalny Dies in Prison
On February 16, 2024, Alexei Navalny died in prison in Yamalo-Nenets, Western Siberia, after feeling unwell during a walk. The prison's statement attributed his death to unsuccessful resuscitation efforts. Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, confirmed his death and requested the return of his body to his family. His death followed reports of malnourishment and mistreatment in prison. His body was returned to his mother on February 24, 2024.
October 2024: Publication of Posthumous Memoirs
Alexei Navalny's memoirs, chronicling his life and experiences, are set to be published posthumously in October 2024.
2036: Navalny Opposes Constitutional Amendments, Calls Vote a "Coup"
Alexei Navalny actively campaigned against the constitutional amendments put to a vote in 2020. He condemned the process as a "coup" that would enable President Putin to remain in power until 2036 by allowing him to serve two additional terms. Navalny denounced the results as fraudulent, highlighting his continued resistance to Putin's tightening grip on power.
December 2038: Navalny's Projected Release Date (Prior to Disappearance)
Had Alexei Navalny served his full sentence following his additional charges in August 2023, his release date would have been December 2038. However, this was disrupted by his disappearance in December 2023.