“This is an arbitrariness and flagrant violation of laws in the media sphere, as well as restriction of work freedom of Sputnik and RT TV channel. This resolution is a continuation of a repressive course and policy of shutting up every free voice and media organizations, which are platforms for free expression of thoughts based on a high professionalism,” the minister told Sputnik.
On Wednesday, the European Parliament voted in favor of a Polish-proposed resolution on countering Russian media outlets, such as the Sputnik news agency and the RT broadcaster. As many as 304 voted in favor the document, 179 voted against and 208 abstained. With a total of 691 officials taking part in the vote, less than half supported the resolution.
According to Tarjaman, the European Parliament’s move shows Western countries’ concern over the success of the Russian and Syrian armies in the fight against terror.
The minister stressed that the West has implemented a similar strategy before when Al-Manar TV channel was blocked in Europe.
“Wherever they feel that there are some voices saying the truth, they shut them down,” the minister added.
Wednesday's resolution said that Sputnik and RT posed a danger to European unity and called for extra European Commission funding for counter-propaganda projects. Sputnik responded by calling the move a direct violation of media freedom and human rights, while Russian President Vladimir Putin commented on the matter by pointing out that the document indicates a degradation of democracy in the West. Praising Sputnik and RT for their work, the president expressed hope that real media restrictions will not follow.
