Russian authorities on Friday granted the infamous “foreign agent” status to a popular actor, Arthur Smolianinov, who said he was ready to fight alongside Ukrainian troops against Moscow.
Arthur Smolianinov, 39, left Russia like thousands of his compatriots after the start of the Russian offensive in Ukraine.
In an interview with the opposition newspaper. Novaia Gazeta Europeposted last week, said he could be seen fighting Russian forces.
“If I were to participate in this war, I would be on the Ukrainian side,” said this actor, known in Russia in particular for his role in the 2005 film “The Ninth Company”, which takes place at the time of the war. Invasion of Afghanistan by the USSR.
He also said he doesn’t care what happens to Russia in the future, even if the country is reduced to “radioactive ash.”
A binding qualification
On Friday, the Justice Ministry added the actor’s name to its list of “foreign agents,” a term widely used by Russian authorities to stifle critical voices.
This classification requires painful administrative procedures and identification as such in any publication, even on social networks, under penalty of fines.
The “foreign agents” law was tightened in June, adding new prohibitions.
Arthur Smolianinov’s interview sparked protests among Kremlin supporters. On Monday, the head of the powerful Investigative Committee, Alexandre Bastrykine, ordered the opening of criminal proceedings against the actor.
Several other Russian personalities, including music critic Artemi Troitsky, known for his hostility to Kremlin policy and also in exile, were classified as “foreign agents” on Friday.
Source: BFM TV
