Key facts
- A suspect using a Georgian passport has been detained in Poland in connection with the killing of Russian artist Semyon Skrepetsky.
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the killing as likely a political murder.
- The artist, known for criticizing President Vladimir Putin, was shot dead in Biala Podlaska.
- The detained suspect is a 36-year-old man.
- Two Belarusians previously detained in connection with the killing have been released.
Polish authorities have arrested a 36-year-old man, identified by a Georgian passport, suspected of fatally shooting Russian activist Semyon Skrepetsky in daylight. Skrepetsky, also known as Robert Kuzovkov, was known for his criticism of President Vladimir Putin and was shot dead near his home in Biala Podlaska, eastern Poland.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that the killing has the hallmarks of a political assassination, suggesting it could be ordered by Russia and would constitute state terrorism. The suspect was detained in Warsaw by police in cooperation with the Internal Security Agency. Prosecutors reported that the victim was hit by five bullets, including one to the head.
Two Belarusians were previously detained in connection with the killing but have not been charged and were released. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Wladyslaw Bartoszewski had previously suggested that individuals of Chechen origin, whom the artist had attacked in his work, were also potential suspects. Skrepetsky's artwork included critical portrayals of Putin and other Russian officials. He had recently staged a protest in Berlin and had declined an offer of protection from Polish authorities.