Russia Declares Novaya Gazeta Europe an 'Undesirable' News Outlet

Russian authorities have designated Latvia-based independent news outlet Novaya Gazeta Europe as an "undesirable" organization, forcing it to cease operations in Russia and criminalizing engagement with its content. The decision was based on an audit that accused the outlet of disseminating false information damaging to Russian interests, including allegations of human rights violations and war crimes. The government cited the "foreign agent" status of the editor-in-chief and the publication's association with other designated "extremist" and "undesirable" entities as reasons for the decision. Novaya Gazeta Europe, founded by exiled journalists from Novaya Gazeta, plans to continue its work despite the label.