The exiled reporter exposed Putin's alleged affair with gymnast Alina Kabaeva before fleeing to Latvia
Category: Politics
Grigory Nekhoroshev, a prominent Russian journalist known for exposing Vladimir Putin's alleged relationship with Olympic gymnast Alina Kabaeva, died on June 19, 2026, in Riga, Latvia. He was 69 years old and had lived in Latvia for over a decade as a political refugee. His death is suspected to be caused by poisoning from false honey mushrooms he had collected near his home.
Nekhoroshev's death has shocked many within the Russian-speaking intellectual community, where he was regarded as a respected figure. He was the editor-in-chief of Moskovsky Korrespondent when it published a controversial 2008 report alleging that Putin planned to divorce his wife, Lyudmila, and marry Kabaeva. Following the publication, the newspaper was shut down, and Nekhoroshev faced questioning from security officers.
Friends of Nekhoroshev reported that he appeared cheerful shortly before his death. Andrey Shavrey, who met him at a Riga literary club just two days prior, noted that he seemed happy. Artur Avotiņš, an art expert, also mentioned seeing him smiling on a bus the evening before his death.
Nekhoroshev's reporting on Putin's alleged affair with Kabaeva has been a point of contention, as Putin has never publicly acknowledged the relationship, consistently denying any claims about it. The report suggested that Kabaeva, who is significantly younger than Putin, had at least two children with him, which has fueled speculation and intrigue surrounding the Russian leader's personal life.
His death raises questions about the safety of journalists who challenge the Kremlin. Though there is currently no evidence pointing to foul play in his death, the circumstances surrounding it echo a troubling pattern of mysterious deaths among Putin's critics. Notable cases include the assassinations of investigative journalist Anna Politkovskaya in 2006 and ex-FSB operative Alexander Litvinenko in 2006, who was poisoned in London.
Nekhoroshev was often referred to as a "personal enemy" of Putin due to his fearless reporting. His work challenged the Kremlin's narrative and highlighted the risks faced by journalists in Russia. After the annexation of Crimea in 2014, he fled Russia, fearing for his safety. His death could serve as a warning to other journalists who dare to investigate the Russian government.
Former KGB spy and banker Alexander Lebedev, who owned Moskovsky Korrespondent, faced pressure from the Kremlin after the publication of the report. This incident underlines the extent to which the Russian government goes to suppress dissent and control the narrative surrounding its leaders.
As the news of Nekhoroshev's death spreads, it will be important to monitor reactions from both Russian and international media. Will this event prompt renewed discussions about press freedom in Russia? How will it affect those still reporting on sensitive issues related to the Kremlin?
In addition, observers should pay attention to potential responses from Putin's administration. Historically, the Kremlin has sought to discredit or silence critics, and any statements made following this incident could indicate their strategy moving forward.
With the rise of authoritarianism globally, Nekhoroshev's story serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers faced by journalists who challenge powerful regimes. The implications of his death may resonate far beyond Latvia, affecting the broader discourse on press freedom and human rights.