New case leads to detention of Russian journalists linked to Alexei Navalny

Russian police have intensified their crackdown on associates of the late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, with the recent arrests of two journalists linked to the opposition leader’s media team. Konstantin Gabov and Sergey Karelin were apprehended on charges of collaborating with Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, which has been deemed an “extremist” organization by the Russian state.

Gabov, identified as a producer for international news agency Reuters, was forcibly taken into custody by masked and armed FSB security service officers in Moscow. Similarly, Karelin, a Russian-Israeli dual national with previous work experience at the Associated Press and Deutsche Welle, was arrested in Murmansk.

Both journalists have denied the extremism allegations, with their respective employers expressing concern over their detention. The Kremlin’s relentless pursuit of individuals associated with Navalny’s organization persists, despite the opposition leader’s tragic demise in prison earlier this year.

The crackdown has also impacted independent media outlets in Russia, particularly following the country’s invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent restrictions on reporting. Despite the challenges, some international news agencies and local media continue to operate, often relying on platforms like Telegram to reach their audience.

Navalny’s foundation, now operating from abroad, remains committed to exposing corruption within the Russian elite and advocating against President Vladimir Putin. However, the team faces ongoing threats, as evidenced by the recent attack on Leonid Volkov, a key member of Navalny’s group, outside his home in Lithuania.

As the Russian government tightens its grip on dissenting voices, the future of independent journalism in the country remains uncertain.