BIALA PODLASKA, June 16 (STL.News) – A Russian artist known for his vocal criticism of the Kremlin was shot and killed in the eastern Polish town of Biala Podlaska on Monday. Polish prosecutors confirmed the incident on Tuesday, noting that an investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Marcin Kozak, a spokesperson for the district prosecutor in Lublin, stated during a press briefing that the victim sustained five gunshot wounds, including a fatal shot to the head. While authorities have not officially released the victim’s name beyond initials, local media identified him as Robert Kuzovkov, who gained recognition under the artistic pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky.
Two Belarusian individuals have been detained in connection with the case, though officials confirmed that no formal charges have been filed against them at this time. The investigation is currently focusing on confirming the victim’s identity and establishing a clear motive for the shooting.
Kozak noted that the victim was actively involved in artistic work that expressed criticism toward the current leadership of the Russian Federation. Reports from the news outlet Meduza indicate that just three days prior to the shooting, the artist staged a protest in Berlin during Russia Day. The demonstration featured a caricature depicting Joseph Stalin and President Vladimir Putin.
“The identity of the victim would be a key element for the investigation,” Kozak stated by phone.
Poland has increasingly identified itself as a primary hub for military and humanitarian supplies entering Ukraine. Officials maintain that this role has made the country a frequent target for foreign intelligence operations. Jacek Dobrzynski, a spokesman for Poland’s special services minister, confirmed that the Internal Security Agency is collaborating closely with police and prosecutors. The Russian embassy in Warsaw has not yet provided a comment regarding the incident.
