Russia is demanding the deportation of musicians known for their anti-war stance. However, they all have passports from other countries.
Israeli authorities have opposed the deportation to Russia of members of the Bi-2 group, who, at Moscow’s request, were detained in Thailand after the concert, Ynet reports.
The Israeli Foreign Ministry intervened after the musicians, known for their anti-war stance and criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, ended up in a Bangkok jail at Moscow’s request.
Four members of the group are citizens of Israel, two hold US and Australian passports. The issue of their deportation has now been decided. However, despite the fact that the musicians should be deported to their countries of citizenship, Moscow is “putting great pressure on the Thai authorities,” demanding that they be extradited to Russia, the publication said. writing
The Foreign Ministry and the Israeli Embassy in Bangkok are trying to prevent this from happening, urging local authorities to ensure the safety of the group’s members. The US, Australian and German embassies in Thailand are also addressing the issue.
In the near future, the diplomats will hold talks with Thailand’s Deputy Foreign Minister Jakkapong Sangmani. Since the lead singer of Bi-2, Egor Bortnik (Leva) entered the country with an Israeli passport, and the rest of the group with Russian passports, Thai officials are ready to consider the requests of the only Israeli related to him, Ynet said.
In Russia, the musicians are being asked to be jailed and a case against them for “aiding terrorist activities,” Russian media reports.
The organization Veterans of Russia said that they demanded criminal prosecution of the musicians, because Bortnik spoke in support of Ukraine. “He repeatedly reported on social networks about the purchase of equipment for Ukraine and the obligation to help the Armed Forces of Ukraine until the end of the conflict with the Russian Federation,” said Ildar Rezyapov, chairman of the organization.
Bi-2 members were detained after a concert in Phuket for performing without a work visa. Each of the musicians was fined $95, but they were not released, but sent to a temporary detention center and then taken to Bangkok.
Rock band Bi-2 leaves Russia – media
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.