Belarus musician emerges as a key opposition activist
KYIV, Ukraine — A professional flute player with no political experience might seem to be an unlikely figure to take on the feared KGB state security agency in Belarus.
But Maria Kolesnikova did just that Tuesday, thwarting an attempt by the authorities to expel her to Ukraine with other opposition activists by defiantly ripping her own passport to shreds as KGB agents drove her to the border. She remained in Belarusian custody after the incident.
“I was happy to see that Masha has outfoxed their sly plans and come out the winner,” said fellow activist Maxim Znak, using an informal name for her.
The 38-year-old musician with close-cropped blond hair has emerged as a key opposition activist, appearing at political rallies and fearlessly walking up to lines of riot police and making her signature gesture — a heart formed by her hands.