Russian dissidents persist despite risks to oppose Putin regime
-
Boris Nemtsov, Russian opposition leader and Zhanna's father, was assassinated in 2015 after criticizing Putin's autocratic policies and annexation of Crimea.
-
Zhanna fled Russia in 2015 feeling increasingly at risk, and later established the Boris Nemtsov Foundation for Freedom to continue her father's legacy.
-
Navalny's recent death in prison is seen by Zhanna and others as another Putin-ordered assassination to eliminate political opponents.
-
Russian dissidents face extreme risks but feel a responsibility to keep speaking out and shaping perceptions despite repressive laws.
-
Zhanna aims to support Russian civil society and businesses abroad while pushing for a clear Western strategy to defeat Putin, though change may need to come from within Russia.