Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, condemns the detention of Alexei Navalny yesterday by the Russian authorities. The President issued a statement in this regard.“I condemn the detention of Alexei Navalny yesterday by the Russian authorities, upon his return to Russia. The Russian authorities must immediately release him and ensure his safety.

Detention of political opponents is against Russia's international commitments.

We also continue to expect a thorough and independent investigation on the attack on Alexei Navalny's life.

We will monitor the situation closely”, reads the statement.