Russian Man Escapes Prison after Daughter’s Anti-War Drawing

Background

Alexey Moskalyov, a Russian man who faced prosecution for his critical online posts against the invasion of Ukraine, has escaped from house arrest in a bid to avoid being sent to penal colony. Moskalyov pleaded not guilty but failed to turn up to his hearing in the city of Yefremov. His daughter, Masha, was placed in an orphanage after he was placed under house arrest. Moskalyov’s case has attracted media attention and criticism from human rights groups, who believe it is motivated by his political views and aims to terminate the civil activity of critics of the authorities and society as a whole.

The Case Against Moskalyov

Moskalyov was charged for repeatedly publishing antiwar posts that discredited the Russian military. His 12-year-old daughter drew an anti-war picture during her art class and wrote “No to war” and “Glory to Ukraine.” Her drawing showed Russian missiles raining down on a Ukrainian mother and child. The authorities interrogated Masha and threatened her father, which eventually led to Moskalyov’s prosecution. He faced two years in a penal colony for his actions.

Escape from House Arrest

Moskalyov escaped from house arrest at night, hours before being sentenced to two years in a penal colony. His current whereabouts are unknown, and there is an ongoing investigation into his escape by the prosecutor’s office in Tula, south of Moscow. If no close relative can be found for Masha, she may also be moved to an orphanage.

Criticisms and Reactions

The verdict on Moskalyov has been criticized by human rights groups and led to an online campaign to reunite father and daughter. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized Moskalyov, implying that he was a bad father and criticizing his performance of parental duties. However, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner private army fighting for Russia in Ukraine, called the verdict unfair and requested that the prosecutor review it. He also asked lawyers associated with Wagner to work with Moskalyov’s defense.

Moskalyov’s lawyer Vladimir Biliyenko was in favor of both requests, even if he was unsure of Prigozhin’s motives. He said he would accept any help that would benefit his client. An emotional letter from Masha to her father urging him not to give up and to “believe, love, and hope” was made public on Wednesday.

Political Motivations

Moskalyov’s prosecution is believed by human rights groups to be politically motivated and an attempt to silence critics of the authorities and society as a whole.

Conclusion

The case against Alexey Moskalyov has become another example of the Russian government’s efforts to suppress dissent and critical voices. It also serves as a reminder of the harsh consequences faced by those who dare to question or criticize the government’s actions. Moskalyov’s escape highlights his determination to remain free and fight for justice for himself and his daughter.

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons