Attack on Opposition Leader: A Chilling Tale of Political Feuds
In a shocking turn of events, Leonid Volkov, the head of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), was attacked near his home in Vilnius, Lithuania. The incident, which occurred on March 12, 2024, involved an unknown assailant who ambushed Volkov, resulting in severe injuries including a smashed face and a broken arm. The attack has been described as a 'gangster greeting' from Russian authorities, according to Volkov himself. This violent episode is rooted in a long-standing feud between Volkov and Leonid Nevzlin, a former oil executive with a notorious criminal background.
The Underbelly of Political Rivalry: Financial Feuds and Threats
The animosity between Nevzlin and Volkov has escalated over time, fueled by financial disputes and personal vendettas. A source who identified himself as Anatoly Blinov claimed responsibility for organizing the attack, stating that he acted on behalf of Nevzlin. The feud intensified in 2022, with both parties exchanging accusations on social media. Volkov has accused Nevzlin of spreading misinformation about the FBK, while Nevzlin has labeled Volkov's media efforts as 'garbage.' The competition for funding among opposition groups has further complicated their rivalry, leading to desperate measures on both sides.
Failed Assassination Attempts: A Dangerous Game
Despite several failed attempts to harm Volkov, the recent attack marks a significant escalation in this dangerous game. Blinov's correspondence reveals a chilling plan that included surveillance of Volkov's movements and discussions about kidnapping him. Although the attackers succeeded in inflicting injury, Nevzlin was reportedly dissatisfied with the outcome, as Volkov managed to turn public sentiment in his favor. Following the attack, the immediate perpetrators were apprehended, but the fallout continues as Blinov fears for his life amid threats from both the attackers and Nevzlin's associates.
