On Saturday, the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands accused Russia of being responsible for the death of opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, allegedly caused by a poison sourced from the skin of the poison dart frog. According to these nations, samples taken from Navalny's body tested positive for a compound called epibatidine, which was initially discovered in the Ecuadorian frog species Epipedobates tricolor. They stated that there is no natural explanation for the presence of this substance.

Epibatidine is a compound similar to nicotine and has been found in studies to be 200 times more effective than morphine as a painkiller. Exposure to this toxin can produce symptoms such as paralysis and loss of consciousness, leading to a coma and potentially death. While the nature of the poison suggests a dangerous threat, Sky News reported that it is likely the substance originated from a laboratory rather than directly from the Ecuadorian frogs, raising further questions about the sourcing and intent behind its use.

This controversy intensifies geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by opposition figures in authoritarian regimes. As investigations continue, the implications of this case could impact international relations and lead to calls for accountability regarding state-sponsored violence against political dissenters.