Alexei Navalny was laid to rest today in Moscow. His mother and father were there to say a final farewell to their son; but his wife and children were unable to attend. They had to watch from the safety of a European haven, as the Kremlin authorities had already stated unequivocally that “The same fate awaits Navalnaya. If she comes to Russia, she will go to prison.”

It was only with the greatest difficulty — and for the same reasons of intimidation — that his mother and colleagues were able to make the arrangements for his funeral. Churches, cemeteries, hearses were somehow fully booked — some only when they heard Navalny’s name, others admitting frankly that they had been warned against accepting him. And the public had been “cautioned” to stay away. But, for once, the forces of evil did not prevail. A church and a nearby cemetery were found, a van was acquired . . . and the people came.

By the thousands, they came. They did not carry signs that could have gotten them arrested; but they chanted Navalny’s name, they chanted “Russia without Putin” and “Russia will be free.” And the heavy security forces — regular police and the MVD (Ministry of Internal Affairs) — did not interfere.

People who agreed to be interviewed said they were not afraid. Perhaps there was safety in numbers. Perhaps they were just sick of being afraid. Perhaps it was the presence of the Ambassadors from the United States, France, Germany, Ireland, Australia, and other dignitaries that kept the police at bay. Or perhaps Alexei Navalny’s courage had inspired the people to find their own.

And from their safe place, Navalny’s wife and daughter spoke of their determination to make him proud of them, and to carry on his mission to free Russia from the grip of Putin’s totalitarian regime. Perhaps the end of Alexei Navalny’s life is the spark his movement needs to bring about that new beginning for his beloved country.

And without a doubt — without any “perhaps” — today is a day that will not be forgotten by Vladimir Putin. How he will react remains to be seen; but I doubt that it will be pretty.

Just sayin’ . . .

Brendochka
3/1/24

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