Novaya Gazeta ceases operations after 33 years in Russia

The prominent independent Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta has ceased operations after 33 years. According to statements from the editorial staff, the closure follows intense pressure from Russian authorities and security services.

Key factors leading to the shutdown included the loss of editorial office space and the suspension of reader donation systems, which served as the publication's primary legal source of income. The editorial team reported that banks stopped processing donations, a move they attribute to external pressure from the state repressive apparatus and the FSB.

Staff members expressed fear that the outlet would be designated an extremist organization, a move that would expose journalists, editors, and accountants to criminal prosecution. The publication had previously been designated as a foreign agent, with over 100 contributors and journalists added to such lists.

Over its three decades of operation, Novaya Gazeta covered major events including the Beslan school siege, the Chechen wars, and the MH17 plane crash. The outlet also reported on corruption and human rights violations. During its history, six of its collaborators were killed.