Russian Artist and Putin Critic Shot Dead in Poland
Russian artist and Putin critic shot – Polish authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of Robert Kuzovkov, a Russian artist and outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin, in the city of Biała Podlaska. The 44-year-old was killed in a car park near the Belarusian consulate, approximately 600 meters from the border with Belarus. He was shot five times, with bullets striking his head, chest, and back, according to officials.
About the Victim
The artist, who used the pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky, gained recognition for his satirical political drawings, including portrayals of Putin, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, and Chechen head Ramzan Kadyrov. His work often highlighted criticism of Russian Federation policies, a stance that drew attention from authorities.
“The victim was approached by an unidentified gunman, who fired two shots before stepping back. When he collapsed, the attacker returned and fired three more rounds before fleeing the area,” said Marcin Kozak, a spokesperson for the Lublin District Prosecutor’s Office.
Investigators recovered five shell casings and a Geco 9mm Luger bullet at the scene. An autopsy is planned for Wednesday to determine the exact cause of death. Two Belarusian citizens, aged 33 and 37, were detained nearby the consulate, though their connection to the incident remains unclear.
Background and Recent Activity
Skrepetsky relocated to Biała Podlaska in 2021, where he continued his public artistic work. A recent video circulating on social media shows him at a Russia Day protest outside the Russian embassy in Berlin on June 12. He was carrying a painting depicting Putin and Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, along with a Russian flag attached to his trousers that was dragging across the road.
The incident has sparked questions about potential links between the Belarusian consulate and the attack, as the victim’s critical stance on Russian leadership may have put him in the crosshairs of those with ties to the regime. Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
