Last summer, as Russian opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov landed at London’s Luton Airport, he was unexpectedly met by two plain-clothed police officers, marking a significant moment in his life as a political exile.
“They intercepted me right after I exited the plane,” assessed Dmitry, highlighting that such a situation had never occurred before.
Rather than an arrest, the police had a warning for him.
“I was informed that I’m on a list of individuals deemed to be in danger,” he stated, noting their inquiries about his accommodation and communication methods.
Gudkov, who co-founded the Anti-War Committee, has become a target in Russia for allegedly “spreading misinformation” about the military amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The 2022 invasion of Ukraine has prompted a severe crackdown on dissent within Russia, forcing many activists and journalists into exile.
Several Kremlin critics in Europe report that Russia is amplifying its efforts to silence, threaten, and persecute opponents abroad. The Russian embassy in London has not responded to these claims.
Analysis: Russian Threats Intensifying Abroad
Mark Galeotti, a noted analyst of Russian security services, confirms that the Kremlin’s campaign against its “enemies” abroad is escalating, driven by an increasing sense of paranoia regarding political opposition.
With dissent silenced domestically, Russia now targets those who have sought refuge in the West. Dmitry Medvedev, former president and current deputy head of the Security Council, has labeled these individuals as “traitors.”
Another activist, Ksenia Maximova, revealed that British police approached her concerning her family’s safety, emphasizing the serious threats posed by the Kremlin.
She expressed concern about increased cyber attacks and infiltration attempts against anti-Kremlin activists, a troubling trend echoed by many in the region.
A spokesperson for UK Counter Terrorism Policing acknowledged the rising demand for resources to address state threats, highlighting new legislation that enhances police powers against hostile state activities.
Alesya Marokhovskaya, an investigative journalist, was targeted with threats that included personal information about her life and family.
Initially believing it was a random act, the nature of the threats escalated, forcing her to seek police assistance and raising concerns about the reach of Russian intelligence.
Following persistent harassment, Alesya realized the extent of the threats and the potential involvement of Russian state actors, fearing for her safety while residing in Europe.
The recent increase in incidents against Russian dissidents abroad suggests a coordinated effort by Russian intelligence to suppress political opposition, with experts citing resource reallocation and renewed agency focus.
Mark Galeotti observes a disturbing trend where Russian state actors are now leaning on criminal groups to carry out their threats and acts of violence, further blurring the lines of accountability.
The Polish government investigation into the attack on activist Leonid Volkov indicates the use of hired individuals to conduct violent acts, reinforcing the atmosphere of fear among Kremlin critics in Europe.
The overarching goal appears to be intimidation, aiming to prevent the formation of a robust political opposition against the Kremlin.
The Kremlin continues to exert pressure on dissidents living abroad, complicating their lives through various means of repression.
Activist Olesya Krivtsova escaped to Norway after facing arrest in Russia for her anti-war postings but has now found her Russian passport invalidated, complicating her ability to travel and seek asylum.
Describing her situation as part of a broader pattern of repression, Olesya emphasizes the ongoing cruelty of Russian authorities against political opponents.
The tightening grip of the Kremlin on violent actions against critics showcases their relentless attempt to stifle opposition, leaving many in fear for their safety.
