Meta Imposes Global Ban on Russian State Media
Crackdown on Deceptive Tactics and Foreign Interference
Tech giant Meta, parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, has announced a worldwide ban on several Russian state media networks, including Rossiya Segodnya and RT.
Reason Behind the Ban
Meta’s decision follows a thorough review of Russian state media outlets’ activities, revealing deceptive tactics and foreign interference. “Rossiya Segodnya, RT, and related entities are now banned from all our apps worldwide for engaging in foreign interference activities,” Meta stated.
Russian Response
RT newsreader Eunan O’Neill denied allegations, stating RT and Russia reject claims. The Russian embassy in Washington and Rossiya Segodnya remain silent.
Escalating Tensions
This move escalates Meta’s previous restrictions on Russian state media, including ad bans and reduced content visibility. The EU, UK, and Ukraine had requested blocks on Russian state media following the Ukraine war.
US Accusations
The US accused RT of paying $10 million to a Tennessee firm for covert Russian government messaging. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced sanctions against RT, calling it a “de facto arm of Russia’s intelligence apparatus.”
Implications
The ban highlights growing concerns about foreign interference and disinformation on social media.
