Story perspectives

Journalist Nika Novak Faces Harsh Conditions in Prison

12/24/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nika Novak, a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), has been imprisoned at Penal Colony No. 11 since December 2023 as the first journalist sentenced under new laws targeting collaboration with foreign organizations.
Prisoners there endure beatings and solitary confinement.
Novak's disappearance raised concerns among supporters, later described as a miscommunication.
Advocacy for her release continues as Alsu Kurmasheva highlights dire conditions for imprisoned Russian reporters.

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Story summary

Nika Novak, a journalist for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), has been imprisoned at Penal Colony No. 11 since December 2023 as the first journalist sentenced under new laws targeting collaboration with foreign organizations.
Prisoners there endure beatings and solitary confinement.
Novak's disappearance raised concerns among supporters, later described as a miscommunication.
Advocacy for her release continues as Alsu Kurmasheva highlights dire conditions for imprisoned Russian reporters.