Russia Condemns US Sanctions on RT, Warns of Retaliation

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The Russian Foreign Ministry has condemned US sanctions imposed on the state-owned RT television network, with spokesperson Maria Zakharova issuing a warning of possible retaliatory actions. The sanctions, announced on Friday by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, accuse RT of attempting to interfere in the internal affairs of multiple countries through covert operations.

Blinken stated that RT's parent company, TV-Novosti, and its associated media group, Rossiya Segodnya, were involved in cyber activities and influence campaigns. Dmitry Kiselyov, the director general of Rossiya Segodnya, was also targeted. The sanctions block all assets and interests in the US related to these entities and individuals, or held by US persons.

Zakharova responded on Sunday, labeling the sanctions as censorship and an attack on press freedom. She criticized the US for attempting to stifle Russian media outlets that offer alternative viewpoints. According to Zakharova, this is part of a broader effort by Washington to restrict access to Russian journalism, which she says provides a counter-narrative to Western media.

RT, known for its pro-Russian stance, has long been a source of controversy in the West, with accusations of promoting disinformation and propaganda. The latest sanctions mark a significant escalation in the ongoing media war between Russia and the United States.