Story perspectives

Russia Declares Deutsche Welle "Undesirable," Cracking Down on Press Freedom

12/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

Russia classifies Deutsche Welle (DW) as an "undesirable organization" after a State Duma request in 2024.
The designation makes cooperation with DW a criminal offense punishable by fines or imprisonment.
DW Director General Barbara Massing says the move reflects Kremlin efforts to suppress press freedom.
DW's Russian-language service now reaches about 10 million users weekly.
The classification adds DW to Russia's list of over 280 undesirable organizations.

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Story summary

Russia classifies Deutsche Welle (DW) as an "undesirable organization" after a State Duma request in 2024.
The designation makes cooperation with DW a criminal offense punishable by fines or imprisonment.
DW Director General Barbara Massing says the move reflects Kremlin efforts to suppress press freedom.
DW's Russian-language service now reaches about 10 million users weekly.
The classification adds DW to Russia's list of over 280 undesirable organizations.