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EU: RT boss in France under sanctions

Posted by Europe correspondent on

24.09.2026 European Union have agreed to impose sanctions on Ksenia Fedorova, a former senior executive of the Russian television station Russia Today – RT – in Paris, for allegedly participating in foreign information manipulation and interference.

The EU said Fedorova “participated in the implementation and dissemination of RT France’s editorial policy, including pro-Russian narratives in the context of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.”

“Xenia Fedorova is a Russian media figure and former senior executive of Russia Today (RT) France. In her capacity as President and Director of Information of RT France, she participated in the implementation and dissemination of RT France’s editorial line, including pro-Russian narratives in the context of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine” the EU Council press release reads.

“Following the suspension of RT’s broadcasting activities in the EU, Xenia Fedorova continued to disseminate in French media such as CNews, Europe 1 and Le JDNews, narratives aligned with those promoted by the Russian authorities concerning the war against Ukraine, European support for Ukraine, NATO and relations between Russia and the Union.

“With today’s decision, restrictive measures in view of Russia’s destabilising activities now apply to a total of 81 individuals and 20 entities. Those listed today are subject to an asset freeze, and EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds, financial assets or economic resources available to them.”

“In its conclusions of 18 and 19 June 2026, the European Council condemned all recent hybrid attacks against the Union and its member states. In light of the persistent hybrid campaigns by hostile actors, notably Russia and Belarus, the European Council called for increased and urgent efforts to strengthen resilience, enhance preparedness, protect critical infrastructure, and prevent, deter and respond to hybrid attacks.”

Ksenia Fedorova had headed RT France since 2017. The European Union banned broadcasts by Russia Today and its subsidiaries in February 2022. About a year later, French authorities froze RT France’s accounts, and the bureau shut down. Subsequently, the journalist collaborated with French media outlets CNews, Europe 1, and Le JDNews.

The Paris Police Prefecture ordered Ksenia Fedorova to leave France. Ms. Fedorova challenged the French Interior Ministry’s decision, but the court rejected her appeal. The Russian Foreign Ministry described the journalist’s expulsion as an “act of reprisal.”

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One Comment Add yours

  1. Waikanae watchers's avatar Waikanae watchers says:
    September 25, 2026 at 9:46 am

    The list of banned people who say things the EU bosses don’t like just keeps growing. So much for Freedom of Speech, let alone Democracy.

    Reply

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