Nobel Committee condemns closure of Russian newspaper. Management accuses Kremlin of repression

The Nobel Committee expressed deep concern over the closure of the independent Russian newspaper 'Novaya Gazeta', viewing it as part of the Kremlin's repressive campaign against media. Dmitri Muratov, the former director, stated that the decision reflects the government's intent to eliminate dissent. Jorgen Watne Frydnes, president of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, emphasized that this closure is a severe blow to freedom of expression and public access to information. The newspaper's press license was revoked in 2022, leading to the detention and pressure on several journalists. Founded in 1993, 'Novaya Gazeta' was one of the last outlets openly criticizing Russia's actions in Ukraine and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2021 for its commitment to free speech. Although displaced from their office, journalists may be working on new projects for safety reasons.