Independent Russian outlet Holod warns it may shut down over lack of funds
The independent Russian news outlet Holod says it has money for only two more months of work. The editorial team is asking readers for donations to keep going.
Holod, an independent Russian news outlet, has warned that it may have to close unless it secures additional funding. In an appeal to readers, the editorial team said it has money left for only two months of work and will have to stop if it finds no support.
The journalists asked for donations, saying recurring subscriptions would let them plan further ahead. They also noted that supporting media designated as “foreign agents” in Russia carries no administrative or criminal penalties.
Large audience, no financial stability
According to Holod founder Taisiya Bekbulatova, the outlet has around 1.5 million followers across various platforms, and the audience is growing rapidly. However, she said that given the political situation and the many restrictions on monetization, audience size does not guarantee financial stability. She spoke to Meduza, another independent Russian outlet.
Bekbulatova said Holod would not be able to continue all of its current work. Its main focus will be keeping its Instagram account and YouTube channel running.
About the outlet
Holod has operated since 2019, and its reporting has been nominated several times for the Redkollegia journalism award. In 2024, Russia’s Justice Ministry added the outlet to its register of “foreign agents.”
