The European Union announced on Friday that it was suspending four Russian media outlets within the bloc. This move comes despite warnings from Moscow of retaliation. The EU claims these outlets, including Voice of Europe, RIA Novosti, Izvestia, and Rossiyskaya Gazeta, have actively supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This suspension is part of a wider package of sanctions against Russia.
The EU had previously hinted at this action, prompting a threat of swift and severe response from Russia. The specific nature of this retaliation remains unclear. The head of the Russian Union of Journalists called the ban illegal and argued for a court decision. Additionally, concerns were raised about access to alternative viewpoints for Russian speakers in Europe.