Russia expels Dutch journalist, cites ‘harassment’ of Russian reporters

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the expulsion of a Dutch journalist, with the journalist’s accreditation being revoked. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the move is in retaliation for the Netherlands expelling a correspondent from the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.

Zakharova claimed that Dutch authorities have been “harassing” Russian reporters, a matter that has been raised repeatedly. Unsatisfied with the outcome, Russia is revoking the accreditation of a Dutch journalist, who must now leave the country. The decision could be reversed if the Netherlands changes its stance.

Dutch journalists have been expelled from Russia before. In August 2023, Eva Hartog (Politico, De Groene Amsterdammer) was given six days to leave after her visa was not extended. Similarly, in November 2021, Tom Vennink (de Volkskrant) was forced to leave over alleged administrative violations.

Tensions between the Netherlands and Russia have persisted for years, fueled by the MH17 trial and recent remarks regarding the return of the “Crimean gold” to Ukraine.

The dangers for Western journalists in Russia have risen sharply since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. A notable incident occurred in 2023 with the arrest of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich on espionage allegations.

The Dutch Journalists Association (NVJ) said it has no information about Russia’s decision and does not know which Dutch journalist is affected.