In a recent development, Russian authorities have declined to extend the visa of a Spanish journalist, compelling the reporter to depart the country within a stringent 24-hour timeframe. This decision has unfolded amidst observations that foreign media encounters increasing challenges in covering Russia.
According to reports from El Mundo, a prominent Spanish newspaper, Xavier Colas, the Moscow correspondent for the publication, was informed by a Russian official that his visa renewal would not be granted. Consequently, Colas has since exited Russia, complying with the directive. It’s essential to note that working within Russia without the requisite visa and accreditation from the Foreign Ministry is deemed unlawful for foreign correspondents.
Reflecting on his departure, Colas conveyed his sentiments via a post on the social media platform X, lamenting the sudden end to his 12-year tenure reporting from Moscow. Despite the abrupt conclusion, he expressed no regrets, emphasizing his commitment to impartially narrating events. Notably, Colas indicated that he had been cautioned about potential repercussions for his coverage of protests staged by Russian women advocating for the return of their spouses involved in the conflict in Ukraine.
Despite attempts to solicit comments from the Russian embassy in Washington and El Mundo, responses were not forthcoming at the time of inquiry.
This incident underscores the escalating risks faced by foreign journalists operating within Russia, particularly in the aftermath of the comprehensive invasion of Ukraine. The cases of Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva, American journalists currently detained in Russia under widely disputed and politically charged allegations, serve as poignant examples of the perilous reporting environment within the country. Amidst such circumstances, the exact number of foreign correspondents remaining within Russia remains uncertain.