Russian artist and dissident Semyon Skrepetsky, whose real name was Robert Kuzovkov, was fatally shot on June 15, 2026, in Biala Podlaska, eastern Poland. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9] Skrepetsky was shot five times, including two close-range shots after falling to the ground, with one bullet hitting his head. [3, 5, 6, 8, 9] He was known for provocative caricatures critical of Vladimir Putin, Soviet leader Josef Stalin, opposition figure Alexei Navalny, and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. [1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9]
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the killing was "very likely a political murder". He added, "If it was commissioned by Russia, then this is also a very serious matter with an international dimension." [1, 2, 5, 6, 7] Polish authorities reportedly offered Skrepetsky protection, which he declined. [1, 2, 4, 7] Before his death, Skrepetsky had lived in exile in Poland after leaving Russia in 2021, fearing political persecution. [1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9] He had also recently staged a protest in Berlin. [3, 8, 9]
Two Belarusian citizens detained in connection with the killing have been released without charges. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8] On June 18, Polish police and the Internal Security Agency arrested a 36-year-old suspect who was using a Georgian passport near Warsaw. [2, 3, 5, 6, 8] Prime Minister Tusk confirmed the arrest, stating, "The services are working to establish the mastermind." [5]
Deputy Foreign Minister Wladyslaw Bartoszewski said Chechens could be suspects due to Skrepetsky's criticism of their leaders. "Chechens, whom this man had heavily attacked, are also potentially suspected," he said. [3, 5, 8]
Authorities said the murder weapon was a 9mm Luger, the same type used in previous politically motivated killings in Europe. [6]
Investigations continue to identify who ordered the killing. The case remains a high priority for Polish law enforcement and intelligence agencies. [2, 3, 5, 6, 8]
