Josep Borrell, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, released a declaration as a response to the Moscow Court’s decision of June 9, 2021. According to the mentioned decision, Russian opposition activist Alexei Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation and Foundation for the Protection of Citizens' Rights as well as their regional offices are recognized as “extremist groups”.
In his declaration, High Representative stated that the Court’s decision falls in line with the attempt of Russia’s authorities to “suppress the independent political opposition and anti-corruption investigations” as well as to disqualify Alexei Navalny for the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for September 2021. Borrell also noted that Russian civil society and opposition will definitely suffer from the adopted decision. High Representative, on behalf of the European Union, appealed to Russian authorities and urged to observe human rights and freedoms according to the international provisions. High Commissioner also reminded that Russian government is responsible for the safety and health of Alexei Navalny in the place of detention.
