Two Russian citizens detained at Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

On July 13, 2026, two Russian citizens identified as Victoria and Igor were reportedly detained inside Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey. Reports from the Turkish press indicate the individuals were taken into custody for reading passages from the Bible. Hagia Sophia currently functions as a mosque. A case file has been opened against the two individuals under Article 216 of the Turkish Penal Code, which pertains to the incitement of hatred, hostility, or the insulting of the public. Turkish authorities are currently considering the possibility of deporting the two individuals. The Russian Consulate General in Istanbul has initiated an investigation into the matter. As of now, there has been no official confirmation from the Turkish government regarding these reports.