Russia: Supporters of opposition activist Alexei Navalny demonstrating at Vnukovo Airport in Moscow the evening of Jan. 17

Event

Activists have gathered at Moscow's Vnukovo Airport (VKO) during the evening of Jan. 17 to welcome opposition politician Alexei Navalny back to Russia after he had last several months in Germany recovering from alleged nerve agent poisoning. Authorities have deployed a heavy police presence inside and around VKO; security personnel have also arrested several of Navalny's supporters and removed them from the airport.

Navalny's plane is scheduled to land at about 2000; preliminary reports indicate that law enforcement authorities have a warrant for his arrest and plan to take him into custody upon his arrival. Protest activity in and around the airport could intensify if police make the anticipated arrest.

Security forces will likely remain at the scene and could attempt to disperse the crowd. Transport disruptions in the vicinity of VKO, as well as minor flight delays are possible through the evening of Jan. 17.

Advice

Avoid all areas in and around VKO where demonstrators are gathering or security forces appear to be deploying. Allow additional time for to clear airport security through the evening of Jan. 17. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation.