Ten years ago, on February 27, 2015, Boris Nemtsov, a prominent Russian opposition leader, was assassinated on the Bolshoy Moskvoretsky Bridge right outside the Kremlin. His death shocked the nation and marked the beginning of intensified repression against opposition figures.
Nemtsov was known for his powerful critiques of President Vladimir Putin and the political establishment. A former deputy governor of Nizhny Novgorod, he served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of Russia and was outspoken against the war in Ukraine, which he condemned as senseless aggression against Russia's neighbor.
On the night of his murder, Nemtsov was dining with Anna Duritskaya, who had been his companion for two years. After their meal at the Bosco Café, they walked along the bridge when they were approached by an assailant who shot Nemtsov multiple times before fleeing. Duritskaya managed to call for help, but Nemtsov succumbed to his injuries shortly afterward.
The circumstances surrounding his murder, especially its proximity to the Kremlin, hinted at the broader climate of fear and repression permeated by the Russian state. Many observers, including Western media, suggested state involvement or at least negligence on the part of authorities.
Following Nemtsov's assassination, a spontaneous memorial emerged at the site of his death as flowers and tributes were laid by grieving citizens. Since then, vigilante volunteers have kept the memorial alive, resisting efforts from state authorities to dismantle it. Volunteers recall the emotional turmoil of witnessing the memorial being destroyed multiple times, yet they consistently returned to rebuild it. "The memorial has become a symbol of resistance," said one volunteer, reflecting on their commitment to keeping his memory alive as well as to maintaining the spirit of empowerment.
On the anniversary of his murder, various activists and political figures gathered at the memorial to pay their respects and reflect on his legacy. Many spoke about the significance of Nemtsov's life, emphasizing his role as a courageous opposition leader who predicted much of what has transpired under Putin's regime.
German Minister of Justice Sabine Leutheusser-Schnarrenberger, who attended Nemtsov's funeral, reflected on the atmosphere surrounding his death and the subsequent repression of dissent. She noted how the assassination marked the start of increasing hostility against opposition political figures, which has only escalated over the years.
Despite the repression, the spirit of opposition has persisted. Young activists, some of whom were not even born when Nemtsov was killed, carry his memory forward, advocating for the democratic ideals he championed. The annual memorial gatherings also highlight the importance of civil society standing up against authoritarianism.
Reflecting on Nemtsov’s predictions about Russia's future, many at the memorial emphasized the idea of hope amid despair. Dmitry Kasyanov, one participant of the vigil, shared, “While they may try to silence us, they cannot erase the truth. Nemtsov’s message of peace and democracy is one we must continue to shout.”
The call for justice remains strong among opposition figures and supporters. Investigations following the assassination pointed to members connected to Chechen political structures, raising questions about the accountability of the broader political system. Despite some arrests, the true orchestration behind the assassination remains speculative, with many feeling the case has not been adequately resolved.
Nemtsov's assassins received lengthy prison sentences, but observers like Leutheusser-Schnarrenberger argue they were merely pawns executing orders, emphasizing the need for accountability reaching higher levels of government. "The true masterminds behind his murder remain free, and until they are brought to justice, we can't claim true closure," she commented.
Memorials and vigils throughout Europe have also become symbols of the continuing fight for democracy and freedom of speech, with cities like Prague and Sofia also holding events dedicated to Nemtsov's legacy.
On this tenth anniversary, the sentiment among attendees at the memorial was clear: Boris Nemtsov's fight for justice and democracy lives on. Volunteers who guard the memorial do so not only to honor his memory but also to provide hope for those who feel isolated in their opposition to the current regime.
“We are not just honoring him; we are reminding ourselves of the importance of our fight,” said volunteer Ekaterina Sorokina. “The memorial has become a place where people can come together and share not only grief but also solidarity.”
Reflecting on what Nemtsov stood for, many echoed his vision for Russia as a democratic nation free of corruption and violence. While Nemtsov could not finish his report on the war before he died, the themes of his last work on the carnage of the Ukrainian conflict resonate deeply today as tensions rise and protests swell against the backdrop of the war and political repression.
Though ten years have passed since his untimely death, Boris Nemtsov’s legacy shines brightly among those advocating for fairness, justice, and democracy, serving as both inspiration and motivation to continue pushing for change against the oppressive forces of the current regime.