Ksenia Maximova on Russia’s War on Dissent

We are pleased to welcome Ksenia Maximova, founder and director of the Russian Democratic Society UK and a Liberal Democrat councillor for Walpole in Ealing, London.

Ksenia worked in fashion, first as a model and then for many years as an agent representing photographers, before moving into activism and politics. Since 2022, the Russian Democratic Society has organised anti-war protests and public discussions, raised funds for humanitarian aid to Ukraine and people displaced by the war, and built links with British parliamentarians.

In September, the Federal Security Service opened a criminal case against her, placed her on a wanted list and accused her of involvement with a “terrorist organisation”. The Russian Democratic Society has also been declared an “undesirable organisation” by the Russian authorities. In her interview with DW, Ksenia discusses her support for Ukraine, threats against anti-war Russians abroad and her move from fashion into politics.

Ksenia will talk about her case, how the Kremlin uses labels such as “extremist” and “terrorist” against its opponents at home and abroad, and what Russian democratic organisations in exile can realistically achieve. The conversation will be followed by an audience Q&A. Attendance is free, but advance registration is required.