A recent controversial video showing Russian mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Anastasia Luchkina offering a vape device to a caged orangutan has triggered significant backlash across social media platforms and from animal welfare advocates.
The footage, which quickly went viral, depicts the 24-year-old fighter using the electronic cigarette herself before extending it through the bars of an enclosure at what is reported to be the Taigan Safari Park in Crimea. The orangutan then takes the device, appears to inhale, and subsequently exhales a visible cloud of vapour.
The act was met with immediate and widespread condemnation online. Commenters expressed shock and anger, with many labeling the incident as blatant animal abuse and questioning the individual`s judgment. Reactions ranged from simple expressions of disgust to calls for disciplinary action against the fighter.
While initial reports suggest the orangutan was not seriously harmed by the brief exposure to the vape, the incident has brought scrutiny upon both Luchkina and the safari park. Sources indicate that Taigan Safari Park is considering potential repercussions for Luchkina, including a possible fine and a ban from the premises.
Animal rights organization PETA has strongly criticized the event. A representative from PETA UK described the action as a “violation” of the orangutan`s welfare, highlighting the vulnerability of captive animals. PETA also drew attention to the Taigan Safari Park`s documented history, which reportedly includes concerns about negligence and questionable practices regarding visitor interactions with potentially dangerous animals, including past incidents involving lions.
PETA emphasized the ethical concerns surrounding facilities that may prioritize visitor entertainment over the natural needs and safety of wild animals. They advocate for supporting conservation efforts aimed at preserving natural habitats rather than patronizing operations that could be seen as exploiting animals for public spectacle or, in this digital age, for generating social media content.
Interestingly, this controversial episode has arguably generated more public attention for Anastasia Luchkina than her professional fighting career thus far. She recently made her pro MMA debut last month in India, where she lost via unanimous decision. It seems achieving notoriety outside the octagon for questionable interactions with primates is a rather… unconventional career move.
Ultimately, the viral video serves as an unwelcome reminder of the ethical responsibilities humans have when interacting with wildlife, particularly those held in captivity. It also underscores how easily inappropriate and potentially harmful actions can occur and be disseminated in the age of immediate online sharing, raising ongoing questions about animal welfare standards in zoos and parks worldwide.
