Twenty years after the assassination of Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya, her prescient warnings about Vladimir Putin’s descent into authoritarianism are being revisited. Russian journalists interviewed by AFP highlight her enduring legacy as a symbol of courage, particularly relevant amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine and escalating repression within Russia. Politkovskaya’s work fearlessly exposed human rights abuses and corruption, making her a critical voice challenging the Kremlin. Despite her death in Moscow, her reporting continues to inspire journalists facing similar dangers. Her colleagues emphasize that she remains a “necessary” example of bravery in the current political climate of Russia. The anniversary serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by independent journalism in Russia.