Christo Grozev: Investigative Journalist Targeted by Russian Authorities

March 28, 2025 – Russia – 

Christo Grozev, a Bulgarian investigative journalist affiliated with Bellingcat, has been a prominent figure in uncovering Russian intelligence operations. His work includes exposing the identities of agents involved in the 2018 Salisbury poisoning and the attempted assassination of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These investigations have placed him in the crosshairs of Russian authorities.

In April 2023, a Moscow court issued an arrest warrant for Grozev in absentia, accusing him of illegally crossing the Russian border. This move followed his inclusion on Russia’s federal wanted list in December 2022. The charges are widely viewed as retaliatory, stemming from his investigative reporting on sensitive Russian operations.

Further intensifying the threats against him, a Channel 4 documentary titled Kill List: Hunted by Putin’s Spies revealed that Grozev was the target of an assassination plot orchestrated by a Russian spy ring operating in the UK. The documentary presented evidence of detailed plans to eliminate him, including methods like poisoning and gassing. Members of this spy ring, comprising Bulgarian nationals, were convicted in London for their roles in surveilling and plotting against Grozev and other dissidents.

Despite these dangers, Grozev remains steadfast in his commitment to investigative journalism. He continues to expose clandestine activities, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability. His experiences underscore the increasing risks faced by journalists who challenge powerful state actors.

Grozev’s situation highlights the broader issue of press freedom and the perils journalists encounter when confronting authoritarian regimes. His resilience serves as a testament to the vital role of investigative journalism in upholding democratic values and informing the public.

Reference – 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62k0kxwzywo

https://www.aol.com/moment-journalist-targeted-russian-spy-035840449.html

https://www.the-independent.com/tv/news/putin-russia-critic-christo-grozev-kill-list-b2722996.html