The Death of Alexander Litvinenko: A Major International Incident

On November 23, 2006, Alexander Litvinenko, a former officer of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) and a vocal critic of the Russian government, died in London under mysterious and highly controversial circumstances. His death was caused by acute radiation syndrome, resulting from the ingestion of a lethal dose of polonium-210, a rare and highly radioactive isotope. This event not only shocked the world but also led to a significant international diplomatic crisis.

Background

Alexander Litvinenko

• Early Career: Litvinenko served in the Soviet Union’s KGB and later in its successor, the FSB. He specialized in tackling organized crime.
• Defection: In 1998, Litvinenko publicly accused his superiors of ordering the assassination of Russian oligarch Boris Berezovsky. This led to his arrest and eventual flight to the United Kingdom in 2000, where he was granted asylum.
• Criticism of the Kremlin: While in the UK, Litvinenko became an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government, accusing them of corruption and human rights abuses.

The Poisoning

• Symptoms and Hospitalization: Litvinenko fell ill on November 1, 2006, after meeting with two former Russian agents, Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitry Kovtun, at a London hotel. He was admitted to a hospital with symptoms of severe poisoning.
• Diagnosis: After extensive testing, British health authorities identified polonium-210 as the poison, a substance rarely used outside of specialized scientific applications due to its extreme toxicity and radioactivity.

Investigation and Aftermath

• Public Inquiry: The British government launched an investigation into Litvinenko’s death. A public inquiry concluded in 2016 that his murder was “probably approved” by President Putin and the FSB, although Russia denied any involvement.
• Diplomatic Tensions: The incident severely strained UK-Russia relations. The UK expelled several Russian diplomats, and the case remains a point of contention between the two nations.
• International Impact: Litvinenko’s death highlighted the dangers faced by dissidents and defectors from authoritarian regimes. It also raised awareness about the use of radioactive materials in targeted assassinations.

Broader Historical Significance

• Espionage and Political Assassinations: The case underscored the ongoing risks and complexities of espionage in the post-Cold War era, where political assassinations can have far-reaching international repercussions.
• Human Rights and Free Speech: Litvinenko’s death became a symbol of the struggle for free speech and human rights, particularly for those who challenge powerful state actors.

Alexander Litvinenko’s tragic demise remains a poignant reminder of the perils faced by those who dare to speak out against powerful governments. His story continues to resonate in discussions about international security, human rights, and the rule of law.