"The trial had procedural faults. The charges were not based on strong evidence. It raises serious doubts on compliance with the principle of the rule of law in Russia. We hope that these convictions are reviewed pursuant the procedure of appeal," the ministry told BNS.
"The civil society plays a key role in the democratic system in defending human rights and preventing legal violations, therefore, it must not be suppressed," the ministry said.
On Thursday, a Russian court sentenced Navalny to five years in prison for embezzlement. The opposition activist says the case was politically motivated.
