Russia has escalated its response to the European Union’s media sanctions by blocking access to 81 European media outlets, including high-profile names such as Der Spiegel, Le Monde, and El Mundo. This action, announced by the Russian Foreign Ministry, comes as a direct retaliation to the EU’s May decision to ban four Russian state-owned media outlets, which were accused of disseminating pro-Kremlin propaganda.The comprehensive list of banned media spans across several European countries, affecting outlets from Italy’s RAI to France’s AFP. The Russian Foreign Ministry has framed the move as a countermeasure to what it perceives as ‘politically motivated persecution’ of Russian journalists and media in the EU. They have stated that if the EU lifts its restrictions on Russian media, they will reconsider their decision.The EU’s initial sanctions were part of a broader effort to curb Russian disinformation campaigns, especially regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. In response, Russia has accused the EU of targeting its journalists and has warned of further ‘painful measures’. The Kremlin’s actions have led to an exodus of foreign journalists from Russia, and many independent media outlets within the country have been forced to close. Russia’s Press Freedom Index ranking has plummeted as a result of these actions.
Key points
- Russia blocks 81 European media outlets in response to the EU’s ban on Russian state media.
- Affected media includes Der Spiegel, Le Monde, El Mundo, and RAI.
- Russia warns of further ‘painful measures’ if the EU does not lift its sanctions.
- The Kremlin’s actions have led to a decline in press freedom within Russia.
