Russian opposition leader Sergei Udaltsov and prominent anti-corruption blogger Alexei Navalny, were both released from prison yesterday after more than two weeks in police detention. Supporters and journalists crowded outside the prison to welcome Udaltsov, who was released around midnight, and later Navalny, who emerged from the centre between 8 and 9 am in the morning.

The two had been imprisoned fifteen days ago for participating in the 'people walk' protests in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's inauguration on 7th May.

Upon being released, Navalny told the crowd he would return to jail again if necessary to continue his opposition of the government.

He stated, "Iron beds and porridge don't frighten us. If I have to go back into this building another two times, another 20 times, I am absolutely ready to do so, and I believe so are hundreds, thousands, of others. Events of the past few days leave no doubt that there are people ready to protect their rights, and are not scared of the small or big repressions the regime is carrying out."

Since both figures' imprisonment, protests have continued against the new Russian government, though on a much smaller scale. Before being escorted away Navalny spoke of his desire to hold another mass opposition rally.

"It's my personal opinion that we need to hold a big national protest by September 1st, and I will be going to the organising committee with this proposal."