Two street musicians in St. Petersburg, Alexander Orlov and Diana Loginova, have been detained for a third time after completing 13-day administrative arrests for organizing an unsanctioned gathering. The incident has drawn attention to the city’s approach to public assembly and artistic expression. Orlov and Loginova had previously faced similar charges in the past, indicating a pattern of enforcement in this area.
City officials have stated that maintaining order in public spaces is a priority, and they have emphasized the need for permits for gatherings. However, critics argue that the restrictions on public assembly are being used to suppress artistic and cultural activities. This case has sparked discussions about the balance between public safety and individual freedoms in St. Petersburg.
Orlov and Loginova are known for their street performances, which have become a fixture in the city’s cultural landscape. Their detentions have raised concerns about the suppression of freedom of expression and the limitations placed on public art. Advocacy groups have called for a more lenient approach to allow such performances to continue without facing legal repercussions.