Two individuals scaled the antenna spire of the Empire State Building in New York City on July 1, 2026, and unfurled a large banner promoting world peace before being taken into custody by authorities. The climbers, identified as Russian nationals Angela Nikolau and Ivan Beerkus, known for their rooftop and skyscraper stunts, reached the top of the iconic landmark in a high-risk ascent that drew widespread attention and live video coverage.
The pair displayed a black banner with white lettering quoting musician Jimi Hendrix: “When the power of love beats the love of power, the world knows peace.” After holding the banner for several minutes, one of the climbers reportedly proposed marriage on a lower platform during their descent, leading to an embrace and kiss before police intervened.
The New York Police Department arrested both individuals on charges including burglary, reckless endangerment, and trespassing. They were later released on supervised release pending further court appearances. The stunt, which involved no visible safety equipment, raised immediate concerns about security protocols and potential risks to first responders at one of the city’s most visited landmarks.
The Empire State Building, standing at 1,454 feet tall including its spire, has a long history of security measures, but the climbers managed to access restricted areas. Building management and authorities are investigating how the breach occurred and reviewing protocols to prevent similar incidents.
The event quickly went viral, with millions viewing footage online. While some praised the romantic and daring nature of the climb, others criticized it as reckless and potentially endangering public safety. The couple has gained international attention through previous extreme climbs and a Netflix documentary highlighting their adventures.
This incident highlights ongoing challenges in securing major urban landmarks while balancing public access and tourism with safety concerns in a dense city environment. Officials have not released further details on potential long-term security upgrades at this time.
Daredevil Couple Climbs Empire State Building Spire, Unfurls Peace Banner
