The U.S. government has announced a new round of sanctions targeting Russian state media, with a specific focus on RT (Russia Today). Secretary of State Antony Blinken revealed that RT has been involved in covertly funding military operations in Ukraine. According to the U.S. Department of State, RT orchestrated a secret fundraising campaign aimed at providing the Russian military with essential equipment such as drones, radio gear, and diesel generators. This revelation highlights the broader scope of RT’s involvement in supporting Russia’s military efforts through illicit means.
In addition to its military funding activities, RT has been accused of running sophisticated disinformation campaigns across multiple regions, including Europe, Africa, and the Americas. These operations were reportedly designed to manipulate public opinion and influence political events. The U.S. sanctions extend to RT’s parent organization, TV-Novosti, and other affiliated entities, effectively blocking them from holding or controlling any U.S. investments. This move aims to hinder RT’s ability to conduct further covert influence operations and disrupt its financial networks.
The Biden administration’s action comes amid ongoing efforts to expose and counteract Russian interference in global affairs. The U.S. has partnered with the United Kingdom and Canada to address and reveal the extent of Russian influence operations, particularly those targeting Moldova. These international collaborations aim to strengthen the global response to disinformation and covert activities orchestrated by the Kremlin.
The sanctions also target Rossiya Segodnya, another Russian state-funded media outlet, for its role in inciting unrest in Moldova. Additionally, individuals such as Dmitry Konstantinovich Kiselev, director general of Rossiya Segodnya, have been included in the sanctions list. The U.S. State Department emphasized that while journalism is not prohibited, covert influence activities that undermine democratic processes and spread propaganda are unacceptable. This comprehensive approach underscores the U.S. commitment to combatting disinformation and protecting democratic integrity worldwide.
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