The Ukrainian Secret Service said it faked a Russian journalist’s death after discovering of a Russian plot to kill him
Arkady Babchenko, a Russian journalist who was declared dead last night, turned up to a press conference today.
The Ukranian Security Service claim they staged the death to catch those who were trying to kill him.
The 41-year-old showed up at a press conference today, alongside the head of Ukranian security service.
Speaking at today’s press conference, a special forces officer dramatically said: “I would like to issue my condolences to the Babchenko family.”
However, he added: “But I won’t do it. Instead, I will wish him another happy birthday.”
"I would like to issue condolences to the Babchenko family", said the Ukrainian special forces officer. Then added, after a pause: "But I won't do it. Instead, I will wish him another happy birthday."
After which, Babchenko walks in…
Damn….But such happy news, though!
— Slava Malamud 🇺🇦🇮🇱 (@SlavaMalamud) May 30, 2018
At this point, Babchenko emerged in a black hoodie, visibly emotional as a result of the entire experience.
https://twitter.com/polina__ivanova/status/1001832196632702976
Here’s the moment a visibly upset Babchenko was unveiled at the press conference.
Clip via Громадське Телебаченн
The crowd gasp in shock, before applauding the return of the journalist. According to The Guardian, Babchenko told journalists: “I have been forced to bury my friends and colleagues many times and I know the sickening feeling.”
The journalist that was declared dead last night apologised to his wife. It’s not confirmed whether or not she has been aware of the staging.
