According to multiple Russian media reports, Alexei Sklyar, former deputy minister of labor and social protection of Russia, was found dead in his residence in Moscow on January 15. Preliminary information suggests that the cause of death may be suicide. Relevant departments are currently investigating the incident.

Left a Note Saying "Forced to Commit Suicide"

The newspaper "Izvestia" cited sources stating that Sklyar's body was found at his home. Investigators discovered a weapon at the scene, as well as a written statement addressed to the Moscow Department of Internal Affairs, requesting police to investigate and file a case regarding "someone forcing him to commit suicide." The document was dated January 14, 2026.

TASS also confirmed this information and stated that the police are investigating the specific circumstances. Multiple media outlets pointed out that Sklyar had sent messages to his friends before his death, blaming everything on his wife. Another "Telegram" channel reported that he had previously informed a female friend that when she saw the message, he might already be dead. Subsequently, rescue personnel found his body at the entrance of his private residence in Moscow.

Previously Held Key Positions, Later Entered Business

Public records show that Sklyar served as deputy minister of labor and social protection of Russia in 2018, mainly responsible for information systems and e-government related matters. Around the same time, the former deputy minister divorced his first wife and married colleague Alina Matveyeva, who is 17 years younger than him. In 2022, he was removed from his position by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

After leaving government service, Sklyar and his current wife Matveyeva co-founded a software development company. Media reports state that Matveyeva served as the company's director and the sole beneficiary. Sklyar previously mentioned that the company's products focused on "digital solutions without market alternatives." As of the end of 2024, the company's revenue exceeded 5 million rubles.

Different Accounts About Family Conflicts

However, various conflicting accounts have been disclosed about Sklyar's private life. Russian media Mash reported that Sklyar had long subjected his young wife to domestic violence, even beating her while she was pregnant. The report also stated that their relationship was tense with frequent arguments.

It is known that Matveyeva has recently been taken to the North Caucasus region by her family and is currently living in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic. Reports indicate that Sklyar repeatedly contacted his wife, pleading with her to return home, but was rejected. Some media believe that ongoing family conflicts may have affected his mental state.

However, Matveyeva herself denied experiencing domestic violence, calling the claims "malicious rumors." In an interview with Izvestia, she stated that Sklyar indeed had personal issues, but not for the reasons speculated by the public.

Economic Pressure and Emotional Issues Could Also Be Contributing Factors

According to another Russian media outlet, Baza, Sklyar faced some economic difficulties after leaving the government system, and the career expectations of his wife also placed significant pressure on him. Additionally, the couple often quarreled over suspicion and jealousy. The report said that after arguments, the wife sometimes left home to spend the night in Moscow, while Sklyar remained alone at the suburban house drinking alcohol.

Currently, Russian law enforcement agencies are still investigating the incident, and it remains undetermined whether there was any "forced suicide." The final conclusions will be released by the authorities.

Original: toutiao.com/article/7595578157541999158/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.