Europe, Russia: Demonstrations in solidarity with a deceased Russian opposition figure are possible through mid-February

Protests in solidarity with Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny are possible in urban centers across Europe and Russia in the coming days following his reported death in a prison in Russia's Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug on Feb. 16. Officials are yet to provide a cause of death. Activists in Russia may stage demonstrations in central squares across the country; the largest gatherings will likely take place in Moscow. Elsewhere in Europe, anti-Putin activists, anti-war activists, and Russian expats may stage demonstrations outside Russian diplomatic offices in urban centers throughout the region.

The size of demonstrations will likely vary, with potentially several hundred protesters gathering at the larger events. Authorities in European cities will likely enact increased security measures, including deploying additional personnel, at any gathering site. Security will likely be highest around Russian embassies and other diplomatic or cultural centers. Localized transport and business disruptions may occur, particularly if there is a high turnout or protesters occupy nearby streets. In Russia, security forces may attempt to disperse related gatherings and arrest participants; violence cannot be ruled out.