Pro-Putin open letter includes gallerist without asking and artist without noticing he’s dead

A prominent Russian artist and gallerist has publicly denied signing an open letter in support of President Vladimir Putin’s military position in Ukraine. Aidan Salakhova’s name was included along with other actors, filmmakers, artists and musicians who came out in defence of Putin last week. Among the signatories were film director Fedor Bondarchuk and conductor Valery Gergiev.

Writing on Facebook, Salakhova said: “I did not sign the letter on the Ministry of Culture’s website in support of the president’s position in Ukraine and Crimea. Nobody even consulted me on this question!” She added: “On Monday I will find out how my signature came to be on this document. Everyone knows that I am always neutral when it comes to political games.”

The same list featured Russian painter Victor Tsigal, who died in 2005 at the age of 97. A Kremlin supporter, Tsigal was removed from the list three days after its publication on the ministry’s website. Russia’s military incursion in Crimea has divided Russia’s culture and art world with as many high-profile figures signing open letters in support of and against Putin’s stance.