Russia designates Ekho editor-in-chief Maxim Kurnikov a ‘foreign agent’

Russia's Justice Ministry has put journalist Maxim Kurnikov, editor-in-chief of the news outlet Ekho, on its register of "foreign agents." In Russia, the label is applied to individuals and organizations the authorities consider to be under foreign influence, and it brings additional restrictions and obligations. Ekho was founded abroad by former journalists of the radio station Ekho Moskvy.

Others added to the register

Alongside Kurnikov, the list was extended with:

• Yelena Shuvalova, a former Moscow City Duma member who heads the Novosibirsk branch of the Rassvet party;
• the project "BEYOND PROPAGANDA";
• the project "Prostranstvo Politika. Novosibirsk";
• the International Union of German Culture, an association of nonprofit organizations;
• Mavi Grupp LLC.

Earlier step against Ekho

The Ekho outlet itself was designated a "foreign agent" in July 2026. The status has now also been applied to its editor-in-chief personally.

Source: Meduza.