US Sanctions Russian State Media RT Amid Accusations of Covert Influence

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The United States has introduced new sanctions targeting Russian state media, specifically the channel RT, as tensions between Washington and Moscow escalate over the latter’s influence operations. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the measures, stating that RT operates as a "de facto arm of Russia's intelligence apparatus" and is part of a broader network of Russian-backed media outlets accused of undermining democracy in the US.

 

Speaking to reporters, Blinken emphasized that the Russian government has embedded cyber operatives within RT who are linked to Russian intelligence. "RT is not simply a media outlet; it has connections to a unit with cyber operational capabilities," Blinken remarked, underscoring the gravity of the situation. In response, RT livestreamed his speech on the platform X (formerly Twitter), dismissing the claims as part of the "US’s latest conspiracy theory."

 

Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reacted with sarcasm, suggesting there should be a "new profession" in the US dedicated to managing the numerous sanctions imposed on Russia. These comments come amid RT’s continued defiance of accusations that it played a role in influencing elections. Margarita Simonyan, RT’s editor-in-chief, who was herself sanctioned by the US in the previous week, quipped, "We are excellent teachers," noting that many of RT’s staff were educated in the US, often with American funding.

 

The State Department has leveled serious accusations against RT, claiming the broadcaster engages in activities far beyond journalism. According to the Department, RT has been involved in "information operations, covert influence, and military procurement" across various regions, including Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Blinken went further, alleging that RT has run online fundraisers to purchase military gear, such as body armor, sniper rifles, and drones, for Russian troops engaged in the conflict in Ukraine.

 

In addition to RT’s alleged activities in Ukraine, Blinken claimed that the network has been trying to interfere with Moldova’s political landscape in collaboration with Russian intelligence, particularly ahead of the country's October 2024 presidential elections. US officials pointed out that two RT employees have already been indicted for attempting to interfere in the US presidential election earlier this year, but now argue that RT plays a much broader role in Russia’s campaign to destabilize democracies.

 

RT has responded to these accusations with characteristic derision. In a statement to the BBC, the state broadcaster mockingly referenced past allegations, saying, "2016 called and it wants its clichés back," alluding to accusations from the US that Russian interference impacted the 2016 presidential election. The statement added, "Three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and RT's interference in US elections."

 

In addressing the sanctions during a press conference, Blinken stated, "Our most powerful antidote to Russia's lies is the truth. It's shining a bright light on what the Kremlin is trying to do under the cover of darkness." He also clarified that the sanctions are not intended as a response to RT's content, but rather to its alleged covert influence operations. "Covert influence activities are not journalism," Blinken asserted, reiterating the US government's support for independent media.

 

These sanctions are part of a broader set of measures taken by the US in response to the ongoing influence efforts by Russian state media, particularly as the 2024 US presidential election approaches. The State Department has also officially designated RT as a foreign mission, further highlighting the serious concerns surrounding its operations.

 

Credit: BBC 2024-09-16

 

 

 

[The Old Bull]

Free speech is only for those chosen by the government. They have cut off every way for Russia to state their case. Also they totally ignore the fact that a lot of Ukranians prefer Russia to the US dominated west.

[mogandave]

Russia Russia Russia

[still kicking]

1 hour ago, mogandave said:

Russia Russia Russia

Ha Ha Ha