Alexander Litvinenko’s Death: A Major International Incident

On November 25, 2006, former Russian spy Alexander Litvinenko died in London, succumbing to poisoning by polonium-210, a rare and highly radioactive substance. His death not only marked a significant moment in international relations but also sparked a major investigation that drew global attention.

Background

Alexander Litvinenko was a former officer of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), the successor to the KGB. He became a vocal critic of the Russian government and President Vladimir Putin after defecting to the United Kingdom in 2000. Litvinenko was granted asylum in the UK, where he continued to speak out against corruption and alleged criminal activities within the Russian government.

The Poisoning

Litvinenko fell ill on November 1, 2006, after meeting with two former KGB agents, Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitry Kovtun, at the Millennium Hotel in London. He was admitted to the hospital with symptoms that baffled doctors until tests revealed he had been poisoned with polonium-210, a substance that is lethal even in minuscule amounts.

The Investigation

The investigation into Litvinenko’s death was extensive and complex, involving multiple international agencies. The use of polonium-210, a substance that is difficult to obtain and handle, pointed to a sophisticated operation. British authorities identified Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitry Kovtun as the main suspects, but both denied involvement and remained in Russia, which refused extradition requests.

International Repercussions

Litvinenko’s death strained relations between the United Kingdom and Russia. The British government expelled several Russian diplomats in response to Moscow’s refusal to extradite the suspects. The case highlighted the risks faced by dissidents and defectors and raised concerns about state-sponsored assassinations.

Aftermath

In 2016, a British public inquiry concluded that Litvinenko’s murder was “probably approved” by President Vladimir Putin and the FSB. The findings further soured UK-Russia relations and underscored the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Western nations.

Litvinenko’s death remains a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge powerful regimes and the complex interplay of international diplomacy and justice.