Russian writer's request for a photo near Odesa port causes a scandal

Russian writer Boris Akunin caused a wave of indignation among Odessans by asking for photos from Primorsky Boulevard during the full-scale war with Russia.

This became known on social media.

Borys Akunin (real name: Grigory Chkhartishvili), who has been publicly condemning the war since 2022, asked his subscribers to send him a photo or clarification of the terrain in Odesa, in particular, the slope of the slope from Prymorsky Boulevard towards the Odesa seaport.

The writer explained that he was writing a story set in Odesa, where he had never been. His post caused a wave of criticism on social media. Commentators were outraged that it was inappropriate and dangerous to collect detailed information about the city in the midst of war and constant shelling.

Photo: Screenshot of Boris Akunin's post

• Odesa residents warned that such "literary inquiries" could look like intelligence gathering.
• "Why do you need such information during the war? For a subversive group?"
• "Tell us, tell us, and the drone will come..."
• "Real-time correction",
• "You should not renew interest in a city that is bombed every day."

Some pointed out that such references to Odesa in the Russian information space often coincide with further attacks. Others criticized the very approach to writing the book, saying that it is impossible to write honestly about a city you have never been to and do not understand.

• "We don't need your stories. Just leave Odesa alone," wrote outraged residents.

Many of Akunin's former fans said they stopped reading his books after Russia's full-scale invasion.

It is worth adding that Boris Akunin himself, who was declared a "foreign agent" in Russia, has publicly supported the Freedom of Russia Legion and other armed groups opposed to the Putin regime. Akunin has repeatedly stated his anti-war stance and advocates for a change of power in Russia.

The Basmanny Court of Moscow arrested writer Boris Akunin in absentia in the case of "military fakes" and "justification of terrorism". The criminal proceedings were opened in December 2023, and in January 2024, the Russian Interior Ministry put him on the wanted list. Akunin lives outside of Russia.

Ірина Глухова