Russian Woman Fined for Sharing Provocative Tote Bag Photo about Putin’s Fate

A young Russian woman, identified as Aleksandra, has been fined 30,000 rubles (approximately $317) following the sharing of a photo featuring a provocative tote bag with a controversial message about Vladimir Putin. The text on the blue bag, written in English, read, “Sex is cool, but Putin’s death is better.” Authorities charged her under an article of the Code of Administrative Offenses, claiming that she was “discrediting” the Russian military.

Instagram Posts Lead to Charges

Screenshots of Aleksandra’s personal Instagram account played a significant role in the charges against her. Besides the Putin-themed tote bag, her account also showcased another bag displaying the message “No to war,” along with graffiti protesting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Interrogation and Intimidation

Plainclothes officers paid an unexpected visit to Aleksandra’s residence in Krasnodar on June 28 and transported her to the Ministry of Internal Affairs department for interrogation. During the questioning, officers focused on her LGBTQ+ “propaganda” tattoos, including one depicting a dog wearing a rainbow scarf with the words “The dog is gay.” They harassed her and obstructed her from contacting a lawyer.

Added Fine for LGBTQ+ “Propaganda”

Towards the end of July, the Magistrate’s Court levied an additional fine of over $2,000 on Aleksandra for “propaganda of non-traditional sexual relations,” alongside the initial “discrediting” charge. The police struggled to explain the alleged offense related to her tattoos during the court proceedings.

Fears of Censorship on Social Media

Aleksandra expressed her disappointment at how expressing her opinions, even on her modest social media page, had become increasingly objectionable and hazardous. She suspects that someone may have reported her after discovering her public profile.

Safety Concerns Prevail

Due to ongoing safety concerns, Aleksandra declined to provide further comments or reveal her identity, requesting that her face not be shown.

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