Pro-Putin writer Prilepin assassinated in bomb attack in Russia
Russian Writer and former Politician Zahar Prilepin was targeted this morning in an attack in Nizhny Novgorod. Prilepin had recently returned from Ukraine where he had been reporting on the conflict there for Russian television. According to reports, Prilepin had just finished breakfast at a local restaurant before getting into his car, when an explosion occurred.
The blast killed the vehicle’s driver and injured Prilepin. The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs has released a statement regarding the attack, revealing that Prilepin survived but sustained injuries. The ministry said, “As a result of the explosion, one person was killed, and Zakhar Prilepin, who was in the vehicle, was injured.”
Following the attack, a group called “Ateş” claimed responsibility through a written statement. Prilepin is a well-known writer in Russia, and his past career in politics adds another layer to the situation. This kind of violence against journalists and writers is a concerning trend in Russia, where the freedom of the press and speech is often under attack.
The attack on Prilepin is another reminder of the dangers faced by those who report on the situation in Ukraine and are seen as dissenting voices in Russia. It is a worrying development, and calls for increased protection of journalists and writers in Russia must be made. The government must take swift action to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the safety of all who exercise their right to free speech.
