The Russian Justice Ministry has labeled the independent news outlet Novaya Gazeta a 'foreign agent' and added over 100 individuals connected to the publication to its registry.

Russia’s Justice Ministry designated the independent online news outlet Novaya Gazeta as a “foreign agent” on Friday. Authorities cited the outlet's opposition to the invasion of Ukraine and the alleged spread of false information regarding elections as reasons for the move. Additionally, the ministry added more than 100 individuals affiliated with the publication to its registry of persons linked to foreign agents.

Regulatory Impact and Registry Expansion

The “foreign agent” designation requires organizations to include a lengthy disclaimer on all public statements and social media posts. While those labeled as “affiliated with foreign agents” face fewer restrictions, they must declare their status on any electoral campaign materials. The list of newly affiliated individuals reportedly includes Nikolai Rybakov, the chairman of the Yabloko party. Novaya Gazeta stopped its print publication following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine due to government censorship laws, though it has continued to operate online. Its former editor-in-chief, Dmitry Muratov, was a recipient of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize.

Additional Designations

Alongside Novaya Gazeta, the Justice Ministry added writer Felix Sandalov, poet Sergei Leibgrad, scientist Tatiana Tatarinova, and the academic journal Historical Expertise to its list of “foreign agents.” The ministry accused these entities and individuals of distributing materials from existing “foreign agents” or “undesirable” organizations and spreading false information about government policy. The total number of entities on the list now exceeds 1,250.