Artyom Pronko, a political science student, has been expelled from St. Petersburg State University (SPbGU) following a court ruling that found him involved in the “hanging Minerva” incident. Pronko confirmed his expulsion after a series of events that began in March.

The incident involved the hanging of a Minerva mannequin on a monument near the Twelve Collegia building, an action that was publicized through an anonymous Telegram channel. Pronko was detained on April 9 during his English class and charged with uncoordinated public events.

The “hanging Minerva” action led to further investigations and detentions, including a LETI student who was also accused of a similar act. Pronko was fined 20,000 rubles in May following his trial.

Pronko initially denied involvement and affiliation with any Trotskyist organizations. He provided a letter from the university’s security service confirming he was in class at the time of the incident, making it difficult for him to be present at both locations. However, the investigation presented surveillance footage and a certificate from the center for combating extremism as evidence.

The incident has been linked to a broader “Trotskyist case,” with searches and detentions of students from various universities suspected of involvement in the “Workers’ Power” association. Harry Azaryan, another St. Petersburg State University student, was arrested on charges of inciting terrorism.

“Workers’ Power” has since announced its self-dissolution, identifying its members as Trotskyists advocating for Lenin’s original ideas. Searches were also conducted at the homes of left-wing activists allegedly connected to the group.