Moscow, May 19 (V7N) – The Russian government has officially designated Amnesty International as an “undesirable organization,” effectively banning all of the human rights group’s activities within the country.

The announcement was made by the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office on Monday, citing the organization’s alleged role in supporting anti-Russian narratives and aiding Ukraine amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

According to AFP, the Prosecutor General’s statement accused the London-based Amnesty International headquarters of operating as a hub for a “global Russophobic project,” financed by what it described as allies of the Kiev regime.

Russian authorities further alleged that Amnesty International had actively engaged in activities that undermine the country's sovereignty by “supporting Ukraine” and spreading narratives critical of Moscow.

The “undesirable organization” label is a legal designation under Russian law, used to restrict foreign NGOs and advocacy groups seen as threats to national security or stability. Once listed, an organization is barred from operating inside Russia, and individuals cooperating with it can face legal consequences.

Amnesty International has long been critical of Russia’s human rights record, particularly in relation to its treatment of political dissidents, the war in Ukraine, and the suppression of civil liberties.

As of now, Amnesty has not issued an official response to the ban.

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