The story of Arkady Babchenko is a bizarre one. The Russian journalist was an outspoken critic of the Kremlin and was reportedly shot and killed late Tuesday night. However, he surfaced at a press conference on Wednesday morning as Ukraine revealed that it staged the murder as part of an investigation to “expose Russian agents.” Babchenko surfaced at the press conference and apologized for the staged death. The plan was reportedly in place for more than a month as part of an investigation into threats made against his life.
Vasily Gritsak, head of the Ukrainian security service, said that Russia had recruited an assassin for $30,000.
“I have been forced to bury my friends and colleagues many times and I know the sickening feeling,” Babchenko said at the press conference. “Special apologies to my wife, Olechka, there was no other option. The operation was under preparation for two months. I’ve done my work. I’m still alive for the moment.”
Following the staging of Babchenko’s death, police said they have made one arrest in connection with their investigation. However, there is no word on exactly how the faked death led to the suspect’s arrest.
Babchenko fled Russia after a critical post of the Kremlin on social media. He commented on the plane crash involving military choir Alexandrov Ensemble which was on its way to Syria, while also saying that Russia was an aggressor in bombing Aleppo.
This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.