Russian Opposition Artist Robert Kuzovkov Shot Dead in Poland; Two Belarusians Detained
Russian opposition artist Robert Kuzovkov, 44, known as Semyon Skrepetsky, was shot dead in Poland. Two Belarusian nationals have been detained in connection with the killing. Skrepetsky was known for his satirical art targeting Russian and Belarusian leaders, having left Russia in 2021 due to political persecution fears.
Russian opposition artist Robert Kuzovkov, 44, known as Semyon Skrepetsky, was shot dead in Biała Podlaska, Poland. Polish prosecutors have detained two Belarusian nationals, aged 33 and 37, in connection with the killing, though no charges have been brought yet.
Prosecutor Marcin Kozak confirmed an unidentified man fired three shots from a handgun at Skrepetsky, then two more at close range after he fell. A preliminary examination found five gunshot wounds, including to the chest and head.
Skrepetsky, a native of Russia's Altai Republic, left Russia in 2021 due to fears of political persecution and had lived in Biała Podlaska since. His satirical art targeted figures like Vladimir Putin, Alexander Lukashenka, Ramzan Kadyrov, Joseph Stalin, and Alexei Navalny. One notable work depicted Stalin cradling a baby Putin.