Meta bans RT and other Russian state media for 'foreign interference activity'
Meta, owner of Facebook, has announced the ban of RT and other Russian state-controlled news outlets from its social media platforms. This decision comes as Meta accuses these outlets of carrying out covert influence operations online.
Enforcement Against Russian State Media
Meta stated, "After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets. Rossiya Segodnya, RT, and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity." This move by Meta comes after years of restricting access to RT and other Russian state media outlets across its platforms in the European Union following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Recent Developments
This ban follows the seizure of 32 Russian-backed websites by US officials, accused of sowing disinformation ahead of the 2024 elections. Additionally, two RT employees have been indicted for allegedly launching a $10m propaganda scheme involving popular right-wing social media influencers.
US attorney general, Merrick Garland, highlighted the evidence of Russia's attempts to interfere in the US elections, stating, "The alleged efforts make clear the ends to which the Russian government is willing to go to undermine our democratic process."
Caution Against Russian State Broadcaster
US secretary of state Antony Blinken warned countries to be cautious of the activities of the Russian state broadcaster RT. US prosecutors revealed that RT staff helped publish nearly 2,000 English-language videos on various platforms, garnering millions of views.
Conclusion
Meta's ban on RT and other Russian state media outlets reflects the ongoing concerns about foreign interference activities and misinformation campaigns. The actions taken by Meta and US officials signal a collective effort to safeguard democratic processes and combat covert influence operations.
