Moscow-born Yulia, an economist by training, married Alexei in 2000 and the couple have a daughter, Daria, who reportedly attended Stanford University in California, and a son, Zakhar.
Throughout Navalny's bold and dramatic political career, his wife largely remained in the background, avoiding the spotlight and deferring to her husband. Her main mission, she said, was to support Alexei and protect the children from prying eyes and potential dangers.
Still, Yulia Navalnaya, 47, was seen as her husband's rock, an important source of his strength and determination. Her public displays of affection are rare among Russian politicians, who often leave women aside.
An unforgettable public appearance was in a Russian court in 2022. Alexei was in the prisoner's cage. He gestured to Yulia, in the audience, forming a heart with her hands. It was one of the last times they saw each other in person.
