Today FM breakfast host Tova O'Brien has been blocked from entering Russia indefinitely.
After conducting an interview with Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky, the Russian Federation sanctioned O'Brien over "anti-Russian propaganda".
O'Brien was the first New Zealander to speak with Zelensky face-to-face since the war began, and in the over 40 minute interview, Zelensky and O'Brien discussed a lot.
From the death and destruction that has resulted from the war, to the number of Russian personnel fighting against Ukraine, Zelensky shared his experience and opinions.
"It's really important that the leaders… come to Ukraine and see something with their own eyes," Zelensky said during the interview.
The two also spoke candidly about Zelenky's personal health and the difficulty he faces maintaining contact with his children.
After returning from Ukraine, O'Brien wrote a few opinion pieces regarding her trip, writing about Ukraine's survivors, scarred and scared.
While the breakfast host is the only member of Today FM who has been banned, she is among 31 New Zealanders who have been sanctioned.
Stuff owner Sinead Boucher, RNZ chief executive Paul Thompson, NZME chief executive Michael Boggs, and NZME editor-in-charge Shayne Currie are among the numerous Kiwis who have been blocked from entering the country.
Also on the list are Clarke Gayford, the partner of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern as well as David Cohen, who completed the RNZ cookbook and is a regular media contributor.
