Russia Puts Comedian Semyon Slepakov on International Wanted List

Regional outlets describe the case as part of Russia’s wider pressure on public figures who are critical or work abroad. They say foreign agent rules are used to pursue artists like Slepakov for technical violations that carry criminal penalties. They expect more cultural and media figures to face similar cases, especially those living outside Russia.

• •Russian authorities are using foreign agent rules to bring criminal charges against comedian and screenwriter Semyon Slepakov.
• •The case targets Slepakov for alleged failures to include a foreign agent disclaimer on his content.
• •Foreign agent legislation in Russia is increasingly applied to cultural figures and independent media workers.
• •The international wanted notice for Slepakov may discourage other exiled Russian artists from speaking publicly.
• •Further prosecutions of foreign agent designees are likely as Russian authorities expand use of these laws.