Moscow, August 31, 2025 — Russian journalist and Middle East expert Nikita Smagin has been added to Russia’s official registry of “foreign agents” over his collaborations with several international media outlets, including Azerbaijan’s CBC television channel.
According to a statement from the Russian Ministry of Justice, Smagin’s designation is linked to his work with CBC, as well as with the Carnegie Endowment, Meduza, The Insider, and TV Rain (Dozhd).
Speaking to RBC, Smagin confirmed that he works with CBC, where he hosts the weekly author program Middle East. He noted that the “foreign agent” status was imposed back in April — before tensions between Russia and Azerbaijan escalated.
The journalist’s inclusion in the registry highlights the Kremlin’s tightening controls on independent voices and those engaged in cross-border media cooperation.
