Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has tapped into discontent among the young urban middle class with fiery speeches and Western-style campaigning

Anti-corruption campaigner Alexei Navalny has cemented his status as leader of Russia’s opposition movement by organising the largest unauthorised protest in recent years against President Vladimir Putin’s rule. Alexei Navalny, a prominent critic of Russia’s President Putin and Prime Minister Medvedev, called for the protests after posting reports accusing Medvedev of controlling properties far beyond what he could afford on his government salary, including mansions, yachts, and vineyards.
Authorities detain hundreds of people, including Alexei Navalny, at anti-corruption protests across Russia.