More Russian media outlets close as Moscow cracks down
CNN
The number of independent media voices Russians can read and watch is dropping fast.
Russian authorities have restricted access to news publications including BBC Russia, Radio Liberty and Latvia-based Meduza, RIA Novosti reported on Friday. The media outlets have been added to a list of publications "containing appeals for mass riots, extremism, and participation in illegal mass rallies," according to the state news agency.
The move is part of a major media crackdown following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. On Friday, lawmakers approved a law criminalizing the spread of "fake" information that discredits the Russian armed forces or calls for sanctions against the country, state media agencies reported. Lawbreakers face fines of up to 1.5 million rubles ($13,877).