The recent discussions surrounding the death of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny, who died in 2024, have resurfaced following allegations by several European governments. These nations, including the United Kingdom, Sweden, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, claim that Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine, a potent toxin sourced from a frog species indigenous to southern Ecuador and northern Peru. Their conclusions stem from conclusive examinations of samples taken from Navalny's remains, identifying the presence of this toxin.

Experts like Santiago Ron, a doctor in evolutionary biology affiliated with the World Academy of Sciences, have shed light on the characteristics of the frog in question, known scientifically as Epipedobates anthonyi. This frog is part of a family known for their potent venom and marked by bright warning colors. Such aposematic features serve as a defense mechanism, signaling to potential predators that they are toxic and unpalatable.

The Kremlin, however, has vehemently denied these allegations, contributing to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The accusations not only raise questions about Navalny's untimely death but also highlight the broader implications of political dissent and foreign interference in international affairs, as well as the scientific understanding of the biological sources of such toxins.