How a libertarian media advocate became Putin's chief censor

Russian high culture has long been a cornerstone of Russia's European identity. However, much has changed since 2022, when the war in Ukraine began, and artists came under the scrutiny of Sergei Novikov. This close associate of Vladimir Putin transitioned from being a libertarian to becoming Russia's chief censor.

The war in Ukraine has dramatically altered the international perception of Russia. Within Putin's regime, significant changes have also occurred, with strong opposition to the war emerging among Russian artists such as Marina Aleksandrova (actress), Yuri Shevchuk (singer), and Alla Pugacheva (music icon), particularly in the early days.

However, this initial resistance quickly dissipated, primarily due to Sergei Novikov. The 47-year-old official from the Presidential Administration for Public Relations has been regarded as the Kremlin's chief censor since the war's onset. It was partly his initiative to create a blacklist of artists in Russia, leading to their dismissal from theatres, television, and stage performances.

From the beginning, he has also controlled the content published by the most prominent newspapers to disseminate daily propaganda. His work has drawn comparisons to the worst censors from the Stalinist era, as noted by colleagues whose alignment with the party ideology he rigorously checks.

Novikov, like Sharikov from Bulgakov's story ‘Heart of a Dog,’ senses the 'smell' of ideological enemies of contemporary culture and effectively fights them,” says a friend. The author's music industry source calls the official a "hunter" - reports Meduza portal.

However, journalists point out that Novikov's intense devotion to Putin's regime's values was not always apparent. Early in his career, he actively advocated for free media. During his tenure at one of the first independent radio stations, he even interviewed Boris Nemtsov.

“As a student, he went on an exchange trip to the United States,” recalls his friend. Novikov returned from the trip with proficient English and "a certain European attitude." "At that time, such exchanges were generally cool," says the interviewee. "It was interesting to talk to him; he had seen many things. I think everyone felt it," the source continues.

According to the sources, Novikov’s immense ability to seek maximum comfort might have hinted at his development direction. Initially, the state-run Rosatom, where he served as a spokesperson, provided this comfort. However, it seems that Novikov has indeed come to believe in Putin's propaganda.