Mon May 19 13:57:09 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Russia has declared Amnesty International an “undesirable” organization, accusing it of spreading pro-war content and Russophobia backed by Western allies of Ukraine. Amnesty International condemns the move as an attempt to silence dissent and vows to continue its human rights work in Russia and beyond. The designation effectively bans Amnesty International’s activities in Russia, with potential criminal prosecution for those who support or share its content. This action is part of a broader crackdown on human rights groups and civil society organizations in Russia, exacerbated by the Ukraine war and strained relations with the West.

**News Article:**

**Russia Bans Amnesty International, Accuses Group of Spreading Pro-War Propaganda**

**Moscow, Russia** – The Russian government has designated Amnesty International as an “undesirable” organization, effectively banning the human rights group from operating within the country. The Prosecutor General’s Office accused Amnesty International’s London office of being a “center for the preparation of global Russophobic projects” funded by supporters of the Ukrainian government. They further claimed that the organization has actively worked to intensify the conflict in Ukraine and push for Russia’s isolation.

Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General, strongly condemned the decision, stating it as part of Russia’s ongoing effort to silence dissent. “We will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that all those who are responsible for committing grave human rights violations, whether in Russia, Ukraine, or elsewhere, face justice,” Callamard declared. “Amnesty will never give up or back down in its fight for upholding human rights in Russia and beyond.”

The “undesirable” designation means that Amnesty International must cease all activities in Russia, and individuals who are found to cooperate with or support the organization could face criminal prosecution. This could potentially include anyone who shares Amnesty International’s reports on social media.

Russia’s relations with the West have deteriorated following the conflict in Ukraine and NATO’s expansion. The government has intensified its crackdown on human rights groups and civil society organizations, labeling many as “undesirable” or “foreign agents.” This action has been slammed for trying to silence opposing voices.

The announcement coincided with President Trump holding phone calls with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as part of attempts to negotiate an end to the conflict.

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