Russia's Popular Chef, Who Criticised Vladimir Putin, Found Dead In A Hotel Room

A UK-based Russian chef Alexei Zimin, who made headlines for criticising President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine, was found dead in a hotel room in Serbia. According to the media reports, since Alexei Zimin raised voice against President Putin, he had leave the country and was relocated to London.

Earlier, he hosted a popular cooking show on Russian broadcaster NTV.

According to Serbian authorities, Alexei Zimin's body was found under 'no suspicious circumstances' and there was no evidence found near in the hotel room either.

His body has been sent for the autopsy and toxicology tests.

It was learned that he travelled to Belgrade to promote his new book about Britain, titled Anglomania. The news of his passing has left many in shock, including Katerina Ternovskaya, co-owner of the restaurant where he presented his book. She remarked that during their last meeting, he appeared happy and in good spirits.
Chef's Anti-War Stance

Mr Zimin was a notable critic of Russia's war in Ukraine. His Russian TV show 'Cooking with Alexei Zimin' was abruptly cancelled by NTV after he shared a video on social media singing an anti-war song. At the onset of the war in 2022, he also posted several anti-war statements on Instagram urging for peace and the return of soldiers home.

In one statement, Mr Zimin expressed his belief that war is the worst possible event and should be avoided at all costs. "Like everyone who grew up in the USSR, I was brought up with the fairly common sense belief that war is the worst thing that can happen," he said. "There is no excuse for it and even if there were, now it's too late to make excuses."
Life After Leaving Russia

Since relocating to the UK, Mr Zimin reportedly had not returned to Russia. He mentioned that both he and his restaurant Zima in central London had received threats due to their support for Ukrainian refugees. Despite these challenges, he continued his culinary career and activism from abroad.

The restaurant Zima confirmed Mr Zimin's death on Instagram, expressing their sorrow over losing not just a colleague but also a friend. "We are profoundly grateful for the kind words we have received today in Alexei's memory," they stated. "The entire ZIMA team extends our heartfelt condolences to Alexei's family and mourns alongside them."

Alexei Zimin's legacy as a chef and activist remains significant despite his untimely death. His outspoken stance against war and dedication to humanitarian causes have left a lasting impact on those who knew him personally and professionally.