Novaya Gazeta closes after years of murders and arrests

Russia’s leading investigative newspaper Novaya Gazeta has announced its closure, with staff alleging that sustained government pressure has finally “killed off” the outlet.

The newspaper, renowned for exposing corruption and human rights abuses, said six of its journalists have been murdered over the years, including the high‑profile killing of Anna Politkovskaya 20 years ago this month.

In addition to the killings, several reporters have faced arrests, further intensifying concerns about press freedom in Russia. The paper’s editorial team claims the cumulative effect of these actions has made continued operation impossible.

Novaya Gazeta’s shutdown marks the end of a publication that has been a prominent voice for investigative journalism in Russia since its founding, surviving decades of state scrutiny and intimidation.

International observers have highlighted the closure as a significant blow to independent media in the country, underscoring the broader challenges faced by journalists operating under restrictive regimes.

Source: Al Jazeera. Photo: Shay T / Pexels.