Kremlin closes independent Russian paper Novaya Gazeta after years of dissent

France 24 reported that the Kremlin has ordered the closure of Novaya Gazeta, an independent Russian newspaper known for its critical stance and human rights advocacy. The paper was labeled a 'foreign agent' in September, a designation used by Moscow to suppress dissenting media.

In late October, Novaya Gazeta received an eviction notice requiring them to vacate their longtime office by November 10. Additionally, banks blocked donations from readers, cutting off the paper's financial support, according to France 24.

The Times described Novaya Gazeta as 'the last free newspaper in Russia' and noted that its closure is widely seen as retaliation for its criticism of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The paper had been in operation for over 30 years, defending human rights in the country.

Co-founder Dmitry Muratov reflected on the closure as the end of a long and difficult journey that began in 1993 when Mikhail Gorbachev helped establish the paper with Nobel Peace Prize funds. El País condemned the shutdown, calling Novaya Gazeta a symbol of great Russian journalism.