The Russian Internet community is widely discussing a recent encounter between one of Russia’s best known rock musicians, Yuri Shevchuk, and the country’s powerful prime minister, Vladimir Putin. During a meeting in St. Petersburg, the singer confronted the politician with bold questions about the future of democracy in Russia.

Russian rock star Yuri Shevchuk was one of several cultural leaders invited to meet with Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. Long known as an outspoken opponent of the Kremlin, Shevchuk seized the day.

VOA’s Anya Ardayeva has more on what he did, and how Russian bloggers responded, here.