Information
Ekaterina Barabash, a Russian journalist critical of the invasion of Ukraine, fled to France with the help of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) after facing criminal charges for her outspoken views. At a press conference in Paris, Barabash denounced the collapse of journalism in Russia under totalitarian rule, stating that there is no longer any space for culture or political discourse, only war. Facing up to 10 years in prison for social media posts condemning Russia’s full-scale invasion, she described her two-and-a-half-week escape as extremely difficult and said she now plans to seek political asylum in France.
Her escape was one of the most dangerous operations RSF has undertaken since Russia’s crackdown on media in 2022. RSF’s director emphasised that her successful flight sends a message to the Kremlin that efforts to silence dissent will not succeed and that support exists for endangered journalists. Barabash, previously with Radio France Internationale and Republic, was arrested in Moscow in February and placed under house arrest before being labelled a “foreign agent.” She removed her electronic monitor and fled on April 13, crossing the border on her birthday.
Source: AFP, AP
So What
This operation poses significant risks for the charity involved. However, it is highly probable that they saved Barabash from spending the rest of her life in a Russian prison. Russia is likely to continue discrediting her work, portraying her escape as proof that she collaborates with foreign governments. Nevertheless, she can at least continue her work in exile, despite the ongoing threats she will likely encounter.
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