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On 20 August 2020, Russian opposition figure and anti-corruption activist Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a Novichok nerve agent and was hospitalized in serious condition. The OPCW said that a cholinesterase inhibitor from the Novichok group was found in Navalny’s blood, urine, skin samples and his water bottle.
What does novichok do to the body?
As nerve agents, the Novichok agents belong to the class of organophosphate acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. These chemical compounds inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, preventing the normal breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Who is involved in the Navalny investigation?
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov looks on as Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks via video at a news conference. Both have blamed Western intelligence agenices for being involved with Navalny. Putin and other Russian officials have dismissed the Bellingcat-CNN investigation as part of a campaign orchestrated by Western intelligence agencies.
What happened to Alexei Navalny?
Navalny was treated by paramedics within minutes of the unscheduled landing in Omsk. Navalny fell suddenly ill on a flight home to Moscow and the pilot diverted to Omsk, where he received lifesaving emergency treatment from paramedics.
Alexey Navalny, speaking brusquely and urgently, convinced Kudryavtsev he was an official reviewing the operation. The FSB on Monday issued a statement claiming that a video of Navalny’s conversation with Kudryavtsev, posted by the opposition leader on his YouTube channel, was a “fake” facilitated by foreign intelligence.
Oleg Tayakin opened the door to CNN but closed it as soon as he was asked about his role in tailing Navalny. The Bellingcat-CNN investigation found that the FSB toxins team of about six to 10 agents trailed Navalny for more than three years. After identifying most of the team, CNN and Bellingcat tried to contact them and their superiors.