Canada announced new sanctions on Sunday against six Russian officials following the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny last month in an Arctic prison colony.
The sanctions target "senior officials and high-ranking employees of Russia’s prosecution, judicial and correctional services," a statement by Canada's foreign affairs department said.
The six people "were involved in the violation of Mr. Navalny's human rights, his cruel punishment and ultimately, his death," it said.
"Alongside our partners, Canada will maintain pressure on the Russian government to conduct a full and transparent inquiry into the death of Mr. Navalny," Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said in a statement.
"This increased pressure on the Russian government sends a clear signal that human rights must be unequivocally respected."
After the death of Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vocal critic, the Canadian government summoned Russia's ambassador to "demand a full and transparent investigation" into his death.
Navalny died on Feb. 16 in unclear circumstances in a penal colony in the Arctic, where he was serving a 19-year prison sentence for "extremism." He was 47 years old.
His family and allies have accused the Kremlin of ordering him killed and Western leaders have said Putin is "responsible" for his death.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
