Russian Journalists Arrested on Extremism Charges Linked to Navalny YouTube Videos

Two Russian journalists, Konstantin Gabov and Sergey Karelin, have been arrested by Russian authorities over accusations of 'extremism' linked to YouTube videos published on the channel that was once run by the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Gabov was detained in Moscow, while Karelin, who also has Israeli citizenship, was detained in Russia's northern Murmansk region.

The accusations against both journalists are related to their alleged involvement in 'preparing photo and video material' for the 'Navalny LIVE' YouTube channel, which was created by Navalny's associates and employees of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) NGO, designated as an extremist group in Russia. If convicted, Gabov could face two to six years in prison.

Why this matters: The arrests of Gabov and Karelin are part of Russia's broader crackdown on critical journalists, which has escalated since the start of the war in Ukraine. The case highlights the increasing risks faced by independent media and opposition figures in Russia under the government's tightening grip on dissent.

Gabov, a freelance producer who has worked for various media outlets including Reuters and DW, was ordered by a Russian court to remain in pre-trial detention until at least June 27. Karelin, a journalist with dual Russian-Israeli citizenship who has worked for The Associated Press, faces similar charges.

The arrests are seen as part of the Kremlin's efforts to suppress criticism and opposition to the war in Ukraine. Several other journalists, such as Antonina Favorskaya, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Sergei Mingazov, have also been detained or arrested on charges related to 'extremism' or 'spreading false information about the Russian military' in recent months.

"The accusations against Gabov and Karelin are related to their alleged involvement in 'preparing photo and video material' for the 'Navalny LIVE' YouTube channel, which was created by Navalny's associates and employees of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) NGO, designated as an extremist group in Russia," according to a statement from the Russian Investigative Committee.

The arrests of Gabov and Karelin have drawn condemnation from international media organizations and human rights groups, who view the charges as politically motivated and part of a broader assault on press freedom in Russia. The journalists face a minimum of two years and a maximum of six years in prison if convicted of 'participation in an extremist organization.'

Key Takeaways

• Two Russian journalists arrested over 'extremism' charges linked to Navalny's YouTube channel
• Journalists Gabov and Karelin accused of preparing content for Navalny's 'extremist' group
• Arrests part of Russia's crackdown on critical journalists since Ukraine war began
• Journalists face 2-6 years in prison if convicted of 'participation in extremist organization'
• Arrests condemned by media, rights groups as politically motivated attack on press freedom