Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that it is finalizing a proposal for retaliatory measures against the European Union (EU). This decision comes in response to the EU’s ban on broadcasting four Russian media outlets within its territory.
Earlier this month, the EU decided to suspend the distribution of four prominent Russian media outlets: the Voice of Europe, the RIA Novosti news agency, and the Izvestia and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspapers.
The European Council explained that these outlets have played a crucial role in promoting and supporting Russia’s war efforts against Ukraine.
In a statement, the European Council said, “These media outlets have been essential and instrumental in bringing forward and supporting Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.” This action is part of a broader set of measures the EU has taken to counter Russian influence and disinformation.
Responding, Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned that Russia would deliver a severe reaction to the EU’s ban. She described the upcoming response as “extremely painful” for the EU.
During a news briefing on Thursday, Zakharova stated that the retaliatory measures are almost ready and will be submitted for approval soon. She did not specify what these measures would entail but emphasized that the proposal is in its final stages of preparation.
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This development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and the EU. The ban on Russian media outlets is part of the EU’s broader strategy to counter what it perceives as Russian propaganda and disinformation efforts, particularly in the context of the war in Ukraine.
The situation remains tense, with both sides taking steps to assert their positions. The EU’s actions reflect its commitment to limiting the spread of Russian narratives that it believes undermine European security and stability.
Meanwhile, Russia’s impending retaliation highlights its determination to defend its media outlets and push back against what it sees as unjustified censorship.
As the conflict between Russia and the EU continues to evolve, the international community watches closely. The forthcoming Russian response could further strain relations and impact various aspects of the already complex geopolitical landscape.
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