This week marked 1000 days of Russia’s full-scale invasion on Ukraine.
As we mark this grim milestone, we stand in solidarity with the many journalists who continue to risk their lives to bring us critical news and information about events on the ground.
We also mourn those who have lost their lives.
Since 24 February 2022, 13 journalists have been killed in Ukraine. Arman Soldin and Oksana Baulina were killed by Russian shelling. Maks Levin and Mantas Kvedaravičius are reported to have been killed in an extrajudicial execution. Victoria Roshchyna died in unclear circumstances in Russian custody.
Dozens of others have been injured. At least 13 Ukrainian journalists are currently held in Russian captivity.
Editorial offices, TV towers and other media infrastructure have been destroyed.
While we reaffirm steadfast support for Ukrainians in their fight for freedom, it is vital that the government of Ukraine increases its efforts to protect freedom of expression and independent journalism. Although not comparable to the devastating attacks of Russia’s military, Ukrainian authorities at times use the war as a pretext to censor reporting that doesn’t agree with government messages.
In addition, independent news outlet Ukrainska Pravda (UP) said it has faced ‘ongoing and systematic pressure’ from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s main television channels have also been accused of broadcasting biased reports that toe the government line. There are also reports that Ukrainian officials intimidated investigative journalist Yuriy Nikolov and launched a surveillance operation against investigative outlet Bihus.info.
Despite mounting challenges, over the last 1000 days, Ukraine’s journalists have shown incredible resilience, and they continue to do so.
ARTICLE 19 is committed to supporting Ukrainian journalists and independent media in their work, for as long as it takes.
Read our statement
