Russia’s independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta announced on October 30 that it was ceasing operations after years of increasing pressure from the government, which it said effectively “killed” the publication. The decision marks the end of one of Russia’s last major media outlets openly critical of the Kremlin and its military campaign in Ukraine.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, authorities have intensified efforts to suppress dissenting voices, including targeting independent journalists and outlets. Novaya Gazeta, known for its investigative reporting and human rights coverage since its founding in 1993, experienced multiple forms of state repression over recent years. These included the revocation of its media license, official designation as a “foreign agent,” a Soviet-era label used to marginalize critics, and repeated raids and interrogations of its staff.

Dmitry Muratov, the paper’s Nobel Peace Prize-winning founder and former editor-in-chief, described the closure as part of a broader “military campaign” by the Russian Federation aimed at destroying opponents of the war. “We are fierce opponents of war in all its forms. And we are a part that needed to be destroyed,” Muratov said.

The current editor-in-chief, Sergei Sokolov, conveyed the shutdown in an emotional statement posted online, saying that Russian security services had effectively compelled the editorial team to end the newspaper’s operations.

Novaya Gazeta has a notable history of courageous journalism. It was established in the aftermath of the Soviet Union’s collapse, with support including funding from former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, who contributed part of his Nobel Peace Prize money. Over the years, the newspaper became known for its in-depth investigations into government corruption, military abuses, and human rights violations.

The paper’s journalists have faced significant risks. Several reporters from Novaya Gazeta were murdered, including the prominent journalist Anna Politkovskaya, who was shot dead in 2006 after exposing abuses during Russia’s campaigns in Chechnya. Muratov himself stepped down in 2024 after also being labeled a foreign agent. More recently, authorities searched Sokolov’s home and arrested staff member Oleg Roldugin earlier this year.

The closure drew condemnation from international rights groups. Volker Turk, the United Nations’ human rights chief, called the development “yet another devastating blow for remaining independent media in the Russian Federation.” Reporters Without Borders described Novaya Gazeta as a symbol of “free, pluralistic, independent and rigorous journalism” and a model for journalists worldwide.

The shutdown underscores the increasingly hostile environment for independent media in Russia amid the government’s efforts to control the narrative surrounding its military operations and internal affairs.