Detained Russian Anti-War Rockers En Route to Israel

Russian rock band Bi-2, critical of the war in Ukraine, detained in Thailand after a concert, faced deportation to Russia but are now en route to Israel. The band suspects outside pressure played a role in their detention and fears prosecution in Russia for their anti-war views. The Thai government, with friendly ties to Russia, faced international pressure not to deport the band members. The situation highlights concerns about transnational repression and the treatment of critics of the Russian government abroad.