Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, who died in prison earlier this year, was posthumously awarded the Dresden Peace Prize on Sunday. His widow, Yulia Navalny, accepted the €10,000 ($10,774) award at a ceremony in Dresden’s Schauspielhaus theatre.
Former German President Joachim Gauck praised Navalny as a “selfless and courageous man” who embodied the possibility of a different Russia. He lauded Navalny’s lifelong fight against corruption, calling it a significant challenge to President Vladimir Putin’s regime.
“There are few who stand by their convictions with such unwavering courage, despite constant intimidation,” Gauck said, commending Yulia Navalny for carrying on her husband’s work. He doubled the prize money in a show of solidarity.
In a powerful acceptance speech, Yulia Navalny urged the world to abandon illusions about Putin and heed warnings about his aggression. “Negotiation is not possible,” she declared, calling Putin “synonymous with war.” She dedicated the award to those bravely fighting for peace within Russia.
Navalny died under mysterious circumstances in a Siberian prison camp on February 16th.
The Dresden Peace Prize, formerly known as the Dresden Prize, recognizes individuals who champion peace and understanding. Past recipients include Mikhail Gorbachev and war photographer James Nachtwey. The award ceremony marked the first under the new organization formed in 2024.
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