Britain bans Russian state-backed media outlet RT
AxiosJul 28, 2022
The Facts
British media regulator, Ofcom, revoked RT's licence to broadcast in the UK on Fri. with immediate effect, after a probe concluded RT's coverage of Ukraine did not comply with UK impartiality laws.
The decision comes after Russia criminalized any independent journalism that departs from the Russian state's narrative, particularly in reference to the war in Ukraine.
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
Tackling state disinformation is vital to protect UK security and democracy. Freedom of expression should be guarded fiercely, but RT's lies and propaganda have no place on British screens.
Pro-Russia narrative
Ofcom were politically motivated; the shut down of RT completely ignores the channel's clean record. They have crudely limited the freedom of speech in the UK - a clear continuation of the anti-Russian obsession in Europe and America.