Supporters of Russia’s leading opposition figure, Alexei Navalny, traveled from Australia to Europe this Sunday to press the Kremlin for Navalny’s release, condemn the war, and urge the West to take a tougher stance against Vladimir Putin’s regime. In Spain, the Free Russians Association, the primary opposition organization, organized demonstrations in major cities with the banner reading, “Putin is a murderer.” Hundreds joined, including researchers from the Anticorruption Fund (FBK), an NGO founded by the opposition and later dissolved by Russian authorities.
One demonstrator explained that they joined the rally to show solidarity and to support efforts against corruption within Russia. The statement reflected the view that many Russians abroad are seeking safer havens as sanctions bite, while still keeping a critical eye on developments at home. Prominent figures connected to the movement have chosen to reside in various European locales, and the dialogue around leadership and policy continues to influence discussions in exile communities.
Golikova’s Golf
The conversation then turns to Tatyana Golikova, Deputy Prime Minister for Social Affairs in the Russian government. Allegations have been raised about how social policy intersects with international outreach in Europe. It is noted that several properties and public facilities in the region have been associated with business interests tied to Russian officials. An investigative report published previously is cited as prompting calls for action, with observers noting that ongoing inquiries have yet to lead to formal decisions in several jurisdictions. The point raised is that the presence of high-profile figures in European settings can complicate public perception and scrutiny of policy decisions related to social welfare and national priorities.
The Barcelona demonstration proceeded with relative calm. Ahead of the march, organizers identified two provocateurs and alerted police, who intervened to neutralize one of the individuals. Spectators along Passeig de Gràcia and Las Ramblas offered support as the procession moved toward the Palau de la Generalitat and City Hall. Chants echoed through the streets, including phrases such as “Putin the killer” and “No to war.” Banners highlighted the names of dissidents imprisoned in Russia, underscoring the pressures faced by political prisoners and the international attention on their cases.
Later that day, the protest extended to a social festival environment, with activists engaging the audience at a reggae forum in Benicàssim. There, some participants criticized a former broadcasting executive for propagandist work and for framing the conflict in ways that supporters argue are misleading. When those speakers were not allowed to address the crowd, some attendees voiced their dissent vocally. The exchange reflected a broader debate over media narratives and the funding of organizations involved in public communication on sensitive political topics.