The Russian travel entrepreneur Andrei Kotov, who was imprisoned for organising trips for gay men, has died in his cell. His lawyer confirmed the death to the independent Russian news outlet Novaya Gazeta. According to Russian authorities, the man died by suicide, a conclusion reportedly supported by an investigation.

Kotov was arrested for his "participation in an extremist organisation." In Russia, the "international LGBT+ movement" has been officially classified as "extremist." This classification equates individuals who openly express their sexual orientation or gender identity with organisations such as Al-Qaeda and ISIS. The arrest occurred around 30 November as part of a broader police operation targeting LGBT+ clubs and businesses. Video footage shows the travel agency owner being interrogated harshly by police.

Kotov was "suspected" of organising a "men only" cruise on the Volga River and planning a trip for gay men to Egypt. He consistently denied the charges against him.

Since labelling the LGBT+ movement as "extremist," Russia has intensified pressure on the LGBT+ community. In addition to numerous raids on underground gay clubs, other forms of expression have become increasingly difficult. For instance, two female influencers were forced to apologise publicly after sharing a kiss on social media.