Artem Kirpichenok

The name of historian and writer Artem Kirpichenok, who went missing after arriving in Israel, has been linked to a high-profile security case. Russian media report that the indictment filed today for espionage-related activities refers to Kirpichenok, who has been out of contact since August 2.

Russia is demanding information regarding the fate of historian Artem Kirpichenok, who disappeared after arriving in Israel on August 2. In an appeal to the UN, Moscow stated the cause of arrest is unknown and requested access to legal counsel and medical care: "It is reasonable to believe the arrest stems from his political views."

Activists have appealed to authorities in Moscow to take action to determine the fate of Artem Kirpichenok, who they say landed at Ben Gurion Airport at the beginning of the month and has since disappeared.

Activists in Russia are searching for Artem Kirpichenok (51), a historian with Israeli citizenship who went missing after arriving in Israel last week. A former Israeli resident, he is known for his vocal criticism of Zionism since returning to Russia.