**Title: Russian Artist and Putin Critic Shot Dead in Poland**
**Biała Podlaska, Poland** – Polish authorities are investigating the murder of Robert Kuzovkov, a Russian artist known by his pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky, who was shot dead in an apparent execution-style attack on Monday morning. The incident occurred in a parking lot in Biała Podlaska, a city located approximately 40 kilometers from the Belarusian border.
According to the District Prosecutor's Office in Lublin, the 44-year-old artist was approached by an unidentified gunman who fired two shots at him. After he fell to the ground, the assailant reportedly fired three more shots before fleeing the scene. Police recovered five shell casings and one Geco 9mm Luger bullet from the site of the shooting. Despite the rapid response of emergency services, Kuzovkov was pronounced dead at the scene.
The murder has drawn attention not only due to its violent nature but also because of Kuzovkov's outspoken criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin and other political figures, including Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. His artwork often featured caricatures of these leaders, and he was known for his public artistic activities that criticized the policies of the Russian government.
In a statement, Marcin Kozak, spokesman for the District Prosecutor's Office, noted the circumstances surrounding the murder, stating, "The victim engaged in public artistic activities and used among other things, the pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky, under which he expressed criticism of the current policies of the Russian Federation authorities."
Kuzovkov had relocated to Biała Podlaska in 2021, seeking a place where he could continue his art and activism away from the political tensions in Russia. His recent public appearances included participation in protests, such as a Russia Day demonstration outside the Russian embassy in Berlin on June 12, where he was seen carrying a painting that caricatured Putin alongside Soviet leader Joseph Stalin.
In the wake of the shooting, Polish police have detained two Belarusian citizens, aged 33 and 37, near the Belarusian consulate in Biała Podlaska. Their connection to the murder is still under investigation, and authorities are working to determine their involvement in the incident.
An autopsy for Kuzovkov is scheduled for Wednesday, which may provide further insights into the circumstances of his death. The case has raised concerns about the safety of dissidents and critics of the Russian government living abroad, as well as the broader implications of political violence in Europe.
As the investigation continues, the community and supporters of Kuzovkov are mourning the loss of an artist who used his talents to challenge authoritarianism and advocate for freedom of expression.