Moscow - Alexei Navalny, the prominent Russian opposition leader, could potentially face an extended prison term of 20 years, as revealed by a close associate on Thursday.

In a trial conducted behind closed doors, prosecutors are pursuing a 20-year conviction for Navalny, who has been a vocal critic of the Kremlin's policies. Ivan Zhdanov, providing insights to The Associated Press, disclosed this alarming development.

Navalny's troubles escalated when he was arrested in January 2021 on charges of fraud. This occurred after his return to Russia subsequent to surviving a near-fatal nerve agent attack. The attack involved the use of the potent Novichok nerve agent and resulted in Navalny being placed in a medically induced coma to ensure his survival.

As a prominent figure leading the Russian opposition since 2013, Navalny's influence and activism had raised concerns within the government. His arrest in 2021 stemmed from accusations of fraud and parole violations. The United States has strongly criticized these charges, labeling them as politically motivated.

The fresh allegations against Navalny are linked to his anti-corruption endeavors that targeted high-ranking corruption within the Russian administration, notably involving President Vladimir Putin.

Critics and allies alike contend that these charges are a ploy to retroactively criminalize Navalny's previous political actions, casting doubt on their legitimacy and fairness.