In Russia, access to some news sites, including the BBC, has been blocked. Russia, which invaded Ukraine, cited a law that “criminalizes spreading fake news” as the reason for the decision. Access to the BBC Russian Service, as well as Deutsche Welle, Meduza and Radio Liberty, has been restricted, according to Russian state news agency RIA. In Russia, the BBC’s English-language news site is also inaccessible.
Russia’s parliament has approved a new law that “criminally criminalates the dissemination of false information” about the armed forces.
The Kremlin opposes the definition of the invasion of Ukraine as “occupation” or “war,” instead calling it “special military action.” These statements are also noted in broadcasters that have been denied access under the latest law.
A BBC spokesman said: “Access to accurate, independent information is a fundamental human right and the public should exercise that right in Russia, where there are millions of people who rely on BBC News every week. We will continue our efforts to make BBC News accessible in Russia and the rest of the world.”
Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine on 24 February, a record number of people have followed the WEBSITE of the BBC Russian Service to access up-to-date information.
