The independent Saratov-based publication Svobodnye Novosti has announced that it is ceasing operations.

The independent Saratov-based publication Svobodnye Novosti announced that it is ceasing operations.

The project has repeatedly faced pressure. For example, in April 2024, the Svobodnye Novosti website was blocked without explanation. In August the same year, it emerged that the reason for the block was material about the Russian presidential elections held in March 2024 and the participation of politician Boris Nadezhdin, the death of politician Alexei Navalny and public events in memory of Boris Nemtsov.

In October, the Supreme Court revoked the publication’s licence. The reason cited was the mention of Novaya Gazeta founder Dmitry Muratov and economist Andrei Illarionov without labelling them as “foreign agents.”

“It’s incredibly difficult and painful to say goodbye. We lasted almost 13 years. For an independent media outlet in Russia, that’s a long time. Thank you for being with us. Thank you to everyone who trusted us with your stories and your time to read, watch, comment and share,” the editorial team wrote.