Biała Podlaska – 17.06.2026: Russian cartoonist Semyon Skrepetsky, known for his sharp criticism of President Vladimir Putin, was shot dead on Monday morning in Biała Podlaska, a city in eastern Poland near the Belarusian border. Skrepetsky, whose real name was Robert Kuzovkov, was 44 years old and had been living in Poland since 2021 after fleeing Russia due to political persecution.
Polish investigators reported that the artist was killed in broad daylight by an unknown assailant who fired multiple shots. Prior to this, he had performed an act in Berlin in front of the Russian embassy, in which he threw a Russian flag into a trash bin and displayed a painting depicting Stalin with a baby Putin.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk commented on the incident, stating, “Everything indicates that this is a political murder.” He emphasized that if the murder was commissioned by Russia, it would be an extremely serious international matter.
In connection with the murder, two Belarusian citizens were arrested near the Belarusian consulate in Biała Podlaska. However, they were released due to lack of evidence. The investigation is ongoing to clarify the exact course of events and possible motives.
Skrepetsky was known for his provocative cartoons that often criticized Russian politicians such as Putin, Stalin, and Kadyrov. His works attracted attention both in Russia and internationally, contributing to political discourse.
Polish authorities announced they will continue the investigation with the highest priority to identify the perpetrator and fully clarify the background of the murder. The international community is following the case closely, as it could have far-reaching diplomatic implications.
This incident is part of a series of attacks on Russian dissidents and Kremlin critics carried out in recent years in various countries. The Polish government emphasizes the importance of international cooperation to prevent such acts and hold those responsible accountable.
Furthermore, the Polish government has announced plans to consider enhanced security measures for foreign artists and political dissidents living or working in Poland. The goal is to increase their protection and prevent similar incidents in the future. This initiative also aims to send a signal to the international community that Poland offers refuge and safety to people fleeing political persecution.
The murder of Skrepetsky has caused shock both in Poland and internationally. Human rights activists and cultural figures are calling for cross-border efforts to protect freedom of expression and combat political violence. Skrepetsky’s death is seen as a setback for the political art scene, which plays an important role in exposing and criticizing authoritarian regimes.
Sources
- AP News
- Euronews
- The Moscow Times