Russian Supreme Court Labels Exiled Anti-War Committee a 'Terrorist Organization'

Russian Supreme Court Issues 'Terrorist' Designation

The Russian Supreme Court on Monday, March 2, 2026, officially labeled the Anti-War Committee of Russia (AWCR) as a 'terrorist organization,' effectively banning its activities across the Russian Federation. This decision marks a significant escalation in the Russian authorities' crackdown on opposition groups, particularly those operating from exile.

Background of the Anti-War Committee

The Anti-War Committee of Russia was established on February 27, 2022, shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It was founded by a group of prominent exiled Russian public figures, including former Yukos CEO Mikhail Khodorkovsky, chess champion Garry Kasparov, economist Sergei Guriev, and opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza. The organization's stated mission is to oppose the regime of Russian President Vladimir Putin, condemn the war in Ukraine, and provide support to anti-war Russians and those who have emigrated due to the conflict.

Official Justification and Previous Actions

According to the Prosecutor General's Office, the AWCR was formed 'for the purpose of violently seizing power and changing the constitutional order in the Russian Federation.' The Supreme Court further accused the committee of 'promoting, justifying and supporting terrorism,' alleging that its operations are 'directed and overseen' by Mikhail Khodorkovsky. The Federal Security Service (FSB) has also claimed that committee members 'called for the liquidation of the current Russian government.'

This latest designation follows a series of actions taken by Russian authorities against the group:

• In January 2024, the Anti-War Committee was designated an 'undesirable organization,' criminalizing any engagement with the group within Russia.
• In October 2025, the FSB announced terrorism charges against 23 members of the committee, including several prominent figures.

The ruling was made by Judge Oleg Nefyodov in a closed-door session. Judge Nefyodov has previously presided over cases designating other groups as 'extremist' organizations.

Implications of the Ruling

The 'terrorist organization' label means that all activities of the Anti-War Committee of Russia are now banned nationwide. Individuals found to be involved with the organization face severe penalties, including potential imprisonment. This move is seen by observers as a further tightening of control over dissent and a broadening of the definition of 'terrorism' to include political opposition.