Russian comedian Semyon Slepakov, who has been placed on the Justice Ministry's registry of foreign agents, faces up to two years in prison over a post published on social media, Russian news agency TASS reported.
Slepakov is charged under Article 330.1 of Russia's Criminal Code, which covers evasion of duties required of designated foreign agents. A court is currently reviewing his case in absentia.
What investigators allege
Investigators say Slepakov published a post without labeling it to disclose his foreign agent status. Through his lawyer, the comedian submitted a statement saying he has not been in Russia since 2022 and has not posted on any internet platforms under Russian jurisdiction. Slepakov said he does not understand the substance of the accusation against him.
The investigation into the popular comedian concluded in July.
