Russian President Vladimir Putin can only "destroy Ukraine, not conquer it," Nobel Peace Prize winner Dmitry Muratov stated in an interview with the BBC. Muratov, the editor-in-chief of the influential Russian newspaper Novaya Gazeta, suggested that the war, now in its fifth year, has reached a point where a Russian victory is not attainable.
Muratov also highlighted the severe risks and dangers faced by individuals in Russia who publicly criticize the government or the ongoing military operation in Ukraine. He shared photographs of journalists and a city councilor imprisoned on charges of spreading false information about the military or for alleged links to anti-corruption organizations.
Among those pictured was Alexei Gorinov, a city councilor jailed for speaking out against the war. Muratov also showed a photo of pianist Pavel Kushnir, who was arrested after posting anti-war videos and later died in a pre-trial detention center during a hunger strike at the age of 39.
The Nobel laureate described the bleak reality for those who oppose the authorities in Russia, noting that even the newspaper's office has faced searches, and its managing editor is currently under house arrest. Despite these challenges, Muratov mentioned that many people continue to support their work, expressing gratitude in hushed tones on the streets of Moscow.
Muratov's statements come amid ongoing international scrutiny of Russia's actions in Ukraine and a tightening of restrictions on dissent within Russia. The Novaya Gazeta, known for its critical reporting, has faced increasing pressure in recent years.