Leonid Volkov, a Russian opposition activist known for his association with the late Alexei Navalny, was viciously attacked outside his residence in Vilnius, Lithuania.
Volkov was assaulted by an unidentified assailant wielding a hammer and tear gas, according to statements from Navalny's spokesperson Kira Yarmysh.
Navalny Ally Volkov Brutally Attacked Outside Home
The attack occurred late on Tuesday night, as Volkov arrived home. Yarmysh detailed the brutal assault in a social media post.
"Leonid Volkov has just been attacked outside his house," she wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Someone broke a car window and sprayed tear gas in his eyes, after which the attacker started hitting Leonid with a hammer."
Ivan Zhdanov, another member of Navalny's circle and director of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, corroborated the account, mentioning that Volkov sustained injuries to his legs and arms.
Disturbing images shared online depicted Volkov with a swollen face and bloodied leg, alongside shattered glass near his vehicle.
Following the assault, Volkov was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. The extent of his injuries has yet to be fully disclosed, but reports indicate that he suffered significant trauma, including a broken hand or arm and severe blows to his legs.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, prompting swift action from Lithuanian authorities, who have initiated an investigation into the incident.
Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuania's Foreign Minister, condemned the assault, labeling it as "shocking" and ensuring that the perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.
"Relevant authorities are at work,"Landsbergis posted on X. "Perpetrators will have to answer for their crime."
Attack Comes Amidst Rising Tensions Post-Navalny's Death
Volkov, a staunch critic of the Kremlin, has been residing outside Russia for several years due to safety concerns. His involvement with Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation has made him a target of the Russian government, resulting in numerous politically motivated charges against him.
The attack on Volkov comes amidst heightened tensions within the Russian opposition movement, following the untimely death of Navalny last month.
Navalny's passing in a Russian prison sparked international outcry and accusations of foul play, with his supporters, including his wife, alleging that he was murdered by the Russian authorities, a claim vehemently denied by the Kremlin.
Despite residing outside Russia, Volkov has remained active in advocating for political change within the country, recently urging Russians to participate in a protest ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.
