> Can’t be that

Umm... why?

He was given a choice. Either he returns or his family gets assassinated.

If someone was threatening to kill your family, would you deliver your wife to them? Nothing in the world would compel you, obviously.

Clearly he believed that his family’s lives were exceptionally safe, probably way more safe than they actually were.

The only explanation for his return that fits with the manner of his return is that he wanted to martyr himself.

I don't think you understand how this works. Navalny's family physical location made zero difference here. As evidenced by numerous murders conducted abroad by FSB and GRU. No place is safe when Putin wants you dead.

Highly recommend reading this:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blowing-Up-Russia-Return-KGB/dp/190...