U2 paid tribute to Russian opposition leader Alexei during the band’s residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Navalny was imprisoned in a Russian penal colony where he died suddenly on 2/16,
Navalny was detained by Russian authorities on what are widely regarded as fabricated charges of corruption intended to silence his criticism of Putin.
“Apparently Putin would never, ever say his name,” U2’s Bono told the audience. “So I thought tonight, the free people, from, here, people who believe in freedom — we must say his name. Not just remember it, but say it.”
Following Bono’s statement, the band performed Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” a staple during their residency.
