en.malanginspirasi.com – In a breathtaking and highly illegal stunt that blended romance, activism, and extreme risk, Russian couple climbed ropeless to the top of the Empire State Building spire on Wednesday, July 1st.
They unfurled a large peace banner, and celebrated an on-site marriage proposal with panoramic skyline photos.
The couple, identified as Angela Nikolau and Ivan “Vanya” Beerkus are the subjects of the 2024 Netflix documentary Skywalkers: A Love Story.
They were spotted atop the iconic 1,454-foot spire around midday, dressed in black with faces initially masked.
They displayed a black banner with white lettering that read: “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.”
Witnesses and aerial footage captured the pair at the summit for approximately 30 minutes.
Beerkus reportedly got down on one knee to propose to Nikolau, who accepted.
The couple later shared photos of the moment and the New York City skyline on Instagram.
NYPD officers safely escorted the duo down from the structure. They were taken into custody and face charges including burglary, reckless endangerment, and trespassing.
Mixed Reactions to the High-Risk Display
The audacious climb has sparked divided public opinion.
Many online and on social media hailed the act as a romantic and symbolic gesture promoting peace, especially amid global tensions.
Supporters praised the couple’s daring spirit and the poetic timing of the proposal.
Others, however, condemned the stunt for the unnecessary dangers it posed.
Critics pointed to the potential risk to first responders, bystanders below, and the climbers themselves, noting that any slip could have led to tragedy or required a complex rescue operation.
Authorities have not detailed how the pair gained access to the secured spire.
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Beerkus and Nikolau rose to fame through their rooftopping exploits, which involve scaling skyscrapers without safety equipment.
Their Netflix documentary chronicled their high-stakes adventures and relationship, bringing international attention to the underground sport.
This is not the first time thrill-seekers have targeted the Empire State Building, but Wednesday’s event stands out for its combination of activism, romance, and viral spectacle.
As of Thursday, the couple remained in custody, and it is unclear whether they will face additional penalties beyond the initial charges.
The Empire State Building’s management has not yet issued a formal statement.
