Meta Bans RT and Other Russian State Media Networks

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has expanded its enforcement against Russian state media by banning outlets like RT and Rossiya Segodnya from its platforms. This move comes in response to these networks using deceptive methods to conduct covert influence operations online.

This ban, which affects Meta-owned apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, follows previous actions that limited the reach of Russian state media posts and blocked their advertising capabilities. The Kremlin has criticized Meta’s decision, calling it “unacceptable” and warning that it could further complicate relations between Russia and the company.

Meta stated the ban would be enforced globally in the coming days due to concerns about foreign interference.

The move follows US money-laundering charges filed against two RT employees, linked to an alleged scheme to influence the 2024 US presidential election. Moscow has labeled Meta as an “extremist” organization and previously blocked Facebook and Instagram, but WhatsApp remains widely used in Russia.