Russia Designates Evgeny Kissin as Foreign Agent

Kissin is one of many prominent individuals to be added to Russia's foreign agent register on account of his public support for Ukraine

The Russian pianist Evgeny Kissin has been added to a list of "foreign agents" by Russia's Justice Ministry, according to a recent report by Reuters. Kissin, who holds both British and Israeli citizenship, has been a vocal opponent of the war in Ukraine.

Since 2012, the Russian government has been applying the designation of "foreign agent" to any individual or organization that receives support (financial or otherwise) from outside Russia. Hundreds of individuals, including cultural figures, journalists, businesspeople, and others, are on the register.

On July 14, 2022, Vladimir Putin introduced an update to foreign agent legislation. Foreign agents now cannot be an official of state or local bodies, nor an employee of educational organizations. They also cannot receive financial support from the government.

Kissin has made no secret of his support for Ukraine and his opposition to the Russian government. In addition to performing benefit concerts for the nation, he was also one of many prominent signatories to an open letter condemning the war.

He has also made repeated public statements across social media channels in support of Ukraine.

"I am convinced that in spite of all the horrors the Russian invaders are inflicting on Ukraine and its poor people, this wonderful country will survive, we shall all outlive Putin and his cronies," Kissin wrote on his social media.

"Kissin opposed the special military operation in Ukraine, took part in fundraising events in support of the Ukrainian armed forces, including as part of his touring activities, and also transferred funds to them," wrote the Russian Justice Ministry.