Exiled Russian Rapper Noize MC Charged With 'Justifying' Terrorism
Moscow prosecutors have opened a criminal case against exiled rapper Noize MC over statements they say justify terrorism, an offense punishable by up to seven years in prison. The musician, who fled Russia in 2022, now lives in Vilnius and supports Ukraine through charity concerts.
The Moscow Prosecutor's Office announced Monday that it has filed criminal charges against exiled rapper Noize MC, whose real name is Ivan Alexeyev, accusing him of publicly justifying terrorism. Authorities say he expressed support for an organization designated as terrorist in Russia and made statements during concerts that they characterize as justifying terrorist ideology.
Prosecutors did not identify which organization or specific statements triggered the charges. Publicly justifying terrorism in Russia carries a maximum penalty of seven years in prison.
According to independent outlet Sotavision, Noize MC wore a T-shirt bearing the logo of Ukraine's Azov regiment during a 2024 concert in Spain. Russia classifies Azov as a terrorist organization.
Pattern of prior sanctions
The new charges follow a ruling more than a year ago by a Russian court that banned one of the rapper's songs as "extremist," finding its lyrics amounted to propaganda calling for the overthrow of the Russian government.
Noize MC left Russia shortly after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. He now resides in Vilnius, Lithuania, where he regularly organizes charity concerts for Ukraine alongside other exiled Russian musicians.
Russia's Justice Ministry designated him a "foreign agent" in November 2022. Since then, Russian courts have repeatedly fined him for violations tied to that status and for "discrediting" the Russian military.
