Masked men from a Russian vigilante group stormed a woman's 30th birthday party. They verbally and physically attacked guests at the Arkhangelsk nightclub. The group, called Russkaya Obshina, targets what it considers violations of traditional values. Police reportedly joined the raid.
Russkaya Obshina stated on social media it sought evidence of LGBT propaganda. None of the targeted material was found. The birthday woman, Katya, was interrogated by law enforcement. Nine months later, she was convicted for blasphemy. A red neon crucifix-shaped light was present at the party.
This incident highlights the rise of nationalist groups in Russia. Russkaya Obshina is among the largest of these. Its number of raids has grown significantly in the last two years. Analysts suggest the group may receive funding from Kremlin-linked charities. President Vladimir Putin has promoted traditional values. This agenda hardened after the Ukraine invasion in February 2022.
A law enforcement officer told Katya she did not conform to traditional values. She was sentenced to 200 hours of community service. A witness from Russkaya Obshina claimed the cross caused him emotional shock. Katya now lives in fear due to online harassment. Her case received local media and social media attention.
Russkaya Obshina describes itself as an informal community. It denies links to specific legal entities or membership. The group's videos show members confronting migrants. They are accused of crimes and using racist language. One in four of the group's posts refer to migrants.
A former member, known as Dimitry, described the group as an antibody. He believes it protects Russian culture from foreign intrusion. In the past year, the Russian Orthodox Church encouraged bishops to partner with Russkaya Obshina. This move legitimises the group's actions within the church's teachings.
The government's tight control over public life suggests Kremlin approval. Putin signed a decree in November 2022. It focused on preserving traditional Russian spiritual and moral values. Russkaya Obshina supports Russia's military operations in Ukraine. Last December, it formed a joint military unit with the Espanola brigade.
Financial documents indicate significant funding from influential figures. One major funder is a charity run by sugar magnate Igor Khudokormov. He is a major food producer with connections to the Kremlin.