It is exactly what the Kremlin did not want – for tens of thousands of people to gather in Moscow to pay their respects to Alexei Navalny.
But thanks to the resilience and determination of his family not to allow the authorities to take, at the very least, this final goodbye from them, the ceremony has been allowed to take place.
As his body was carried into the church, people clapped and chanted “Navalny” and “Alexei”. Some were in tears.
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People crowded onto the steps of nearby supermarkets and shopping complexes.
They knew they would not make it into the church, but they felt the need to be there.
There was the odd cry of “Russia will be free”, the old protest rallying cry, or lone voices shouting not to give up hope, but it didn’t take off.
People are aware the police could shut this down if it starts to look like a rally and they want this moment.
If, for many Russians, Alexei Navalny was barely known – thanks to state media blacking out pretty much all mention of him – for his supporters, his death is deeply personal.
Crowds gather near the Borisovskoye cemetery during Navalny’s funeral Pic: Reuters
Flowers laid in memory of Alexei Navalny in Moscow
Many held their bouquets – mostly roses and carnations – up high as they made their way towards the Borisovskoye cemetery, a 30-minute walk to his final resting place.
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If people felt his death had rid them of all hope, at least this turnout is a sign that they are not alone, and that there is still a constituency in Russia who stands against the regime.
Still a constituency which believes and hopes, despite all the odds, that Russia might one day be free.
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Alexei Navalny is a hero who has changed the course of Russian history. His funeral was a testament to the hope and courage that still exists in the hearts of the Russian people.
I don’t know if I can believe that there are still people in Russia who oppose the government. The regime has been in power for so long, and they seem to have a lot of support.
The funeral was a significant event in Russian history. It showed that there are still people who are willing to stand up to the regime, even in the face of great danger.
I don’t think the funeral was as significant as some people are making it out to be. It was just a small group of people who were protesting the government.
Oh, wow, look at all these brave Russians standing up to the regime. I’m sure the government is quaking in their boots.
Yeah, the funeral was a real turning point in Russian history. I’m sure Putin is going to step down any day now.
I wonder if the Russian government will allow Navalny to be buried in Red Square. That would be a real slap in the face to the regime.
The funeral was a symbol of hope for the future of Russia. It showed that there are still people who believe in democracy and freedom.
I don’t think the funeral will change anything. The regime is too powerful, and the people are too scared.
The funeral was a reminder that the Russian people are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in. It was a powerful symbol of resistance.
I don’t think the funeral was a sign of resistance. It was just a way for the opposition to show their strength.
Oh, wow, look at all these brave Russians standing up to the regime. I’m sure the government is quaking in their boots.
Yeah, the funeral was a real turning point in Russian history. I’m sure Putin is going to step down any day now.