POISONING OF ALEXANDER LITVINENKO Meaning and
Definition
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The poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko refers to the high-profile assassination of Russian dissident and former KGB agent Alexander Litvinenko in London, United Kingdom, in 2006. Litvinenko was fatally poisoned with a radioactive substance called polonium-210, which is highly toxic and emits lethal alpha radiation. The incident attracted international attention and raised serious concerns about state-sponsored assassinations.
This poisoning is considered a prominent example of a targeted assassination carried out with a highly sophisticated and unusual method. The investigation pointed towards the involvement of Russian security services in relation to Litvinenko's criticism of the Russian government and his work on exposing corruption within the Russian intelligence community.
The poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko sparked significant controversy and strained diplomatic relations between the United Kingdom and Russia. The case raised questions about the use of chemical agents as a clandestine assassinations method, underscoring the need for strict international regulations and safeguards against the misuse of toxic substances.
In broader terms, the poisoning of Alexander Litvinenko represents a notorious case of state-sponsored assassination, where a dissident or political opponent is targeted covertly through poisoning with a toxic substance. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge powerful authorities and the need for robust mechanisms to protect individuals who advocate for freedom of speech and human rights.
