Russia has issued an arrest warrant for former world chess champion Garry Kasparov, accusing him of promoting terrorist content online. The decision was made by a court in Moscow and applies even though Kasparov is currently living outside the country. The ruling has attracted attention due to Kasparov’s long-standing criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his opposition to the war in Ukraine.
The arrest order was issued in absentia, meaning Kasparov was not present in court. According to the ruling, the warrant will only be enforced if he enters Russian territory or if he is extradited to Russia. The charges were reported by the state-run news agency Tass and fall under Russia’s anti-terrorism laws. If enforced, the offense carries a maximum prison sentence of seven years.
Kasparov has not returned to Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He has remained abroad while continuing his political activities and public criticism of the Russian government.
Russian-labeled Snickers appear in U.K. convenience stores despite trade restrictions
Moscow Court Ruling and Charges
The Zamoskvoretsky District Court in Moscow approved the arrest as a preventive measure. This type of ruling allows authorities to act immediately if the accused person becomes accessible to law enforcement. The court stated that the order would take effect only if Kasparov enters Russia or is handed over by another country.
Russian authorities accuse Kasparov of public incitement to terrorism through online platforms. Under Russian law, this charge applies to digital content that is considered to encourage or justify terrorist actions. The law allows investigators to pursue cases even when the accused individual is outside the country.
The court decision did not publicly outline specific online statements linked to the charges. However, the ruling confirms that investigators believe the content met the legal criteria for terrorism-related offenses. The case remains active under Russian law.
US signals readiness for new Russia sanctions linked to Ukraine peace talks
Arrest warrants issued in absentia have become more common in cases involving critics who live abroad. These legal measures allow Russian authorities to maintain pressure on individuals who are outside the country’s borders.
Political Background and Related Designations
Garry Kasparov is widely known for his achievements in chess and later became involved in political activism. Over the years, he has emerged as a strong critic of President Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin. His political stance has placed him in direct opposition to the Russian government.
In May 2022, Russian authorities added Kasparov to the country’s list of “foreign agents.” This designation is used for individuals accused of acting under foreign influence. Those listed are subject to additional legal restrictions and public labeling.
China and Russia say their partnership has reached its highest level despite sanctions
In 2024, Kasparov was also designated as a terrorist and extremist by Russian authorities. This classification placed him on an official registry and expanded the legal actions that could be taken against him within Russia.
Kasparov is a co-founder of the Free Russia Forum, an opposition movement operating in exile. The group organizes conferences and campaigns opposing the war in Ukraine and criticizing the current Russian leadership. The forum has supported active resistance against the Kremlin and has called for the removal of President Putin’s government.
The Free Russia Forum was launched with the involvement of Khodorkovsky and other exiled figures. Russian authorities view the group as hostile and have taken steps to restrict its activities.
The arrest warrant against Kasparov remains in force under Russian law. While he continues to live outside the country, the ruling establishes legal grounds for detention if he enters Russian territory or is extradited.