Russia: Supporters of opposition leader Alexei Navalny to protest in Moscow Feb. 2

Event

Supporters of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny plan to protest in Moscow on Feb. 2. Demonstrators will gather in front of the Simonovsky District Court starting at 1000. The purpose of the action is to express support for Navalny, whose trial will take place at the courthouse in question on the same day; the opposition leader's supporters assert that his arrest is politically motivated and have been demanding his immediate release.

A heavy police presence will almost certainly deploy at and around the courthouse as the demonstration is taking place. Authorities have not granted a permit for the planned protest; furthermore, current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) measures in Russia restrict public gatherings. Security forces may use riot control measures, including tear gas and baton charges, during any move to disperse crowds of activists. Mass arrests are possible. Crowd-control measures, including possible movement restrictions, could prompt localized transport disruptions. Violent clashes between police and protesters are likely; while bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted, they would face a significant indirect physical threat. Several thousand demonstrators were arrested in related protests nationwide Jan. 31.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed the instructions of security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions in the vicinity of the Simonovsky District Court Feb. 2.