The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) has been officially banned in Russia, classified as 'undesirable' by the government.

Founded in 1992, the foundation has raised over $600 million to enhance healthcare access, combat LGBT stigma, and work towards ending AIDS in 95 countries.

Under Russian law, organizations designated as 'undesirable' pose a national security threat, leading to severe penalties for anyone cooperating with them.

President Vladimir Putin has dismissed allegations of discrimination against LGBT individuals, framing Russia as a defender of traditional values against Western decadence.

The ban on EJAF is viewed as part of Putin's broader campaign promoting state-sponsored homophobia, particularly against organizations perceived to advocate for 'non-traditional sexual relations.'

This decision reflects a growing trend of the Russian government labeling foreign NGOs as unwelcome, especially those seen as critical of Russia.

The crackdown on EJAF coincides with Russia's stringent anti-LGBTQ+ propaganda laws, which have severely restricted LGBTQ+ rights and labeled the international LGBTQ+ movement as 'extremist.'

The foundation has warned that this ban will jeopardize lives and disrupt essential HIV prevention efforts in Russia, where approximately 1.2 million people are living with HIV.

Russian authorities have accused EJAF of promoting 'anti-Russian propaganda' and undermining traditional values, claiming the foundation's humanitarian efforts mask a broader agenda.

Despite this setback, the foundation intends to continue its work in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, remaining a key supporter of HIV/AIDS initiatives.

As of now, the Elton John AIDS Foundation has not issued a public response to the ban.

Western sanctions have further strained funding for Russian HIV/AIDS charities, which heavily depend on support from organizations like EJAF.