Andrey Melnikov

In May 2022, Melnikov was fined 30,000 rubles for violating the administrative article on discrediting the army (Article 20.3.3 of the Code of Administrative Offences) due to a YouTube video titled "Is the use of nuclear weapons possible? Well, why not?". In March 2023, Melnikov's flat was searched, but he had already left Russia by then. Melnikov's wife was not provided with any documents, but was informed that the case was opened under the article on discrediting the army. The police threatened her with the removal of her three minor children, and she was charged with harboring her husband. In May 2023, Melnikov was attempted to be detained in Yerevan. At the same time it turned out that he was put on a wanted list.