EU has to condemn Russia on behalf of chief diplomat Borrell as Hungary blocks joint statement

The EU has condemned the Russian authorities' decision to block access to more than 80 European media outlets in Russia as absolutely unreasonable. However, because of Hungary's position, the EU was unable to express its condemnation on behalf of the 27 member states.    

Source: a statement on behalf of Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The European Commission said earlier that the EU's reaction would be expressed on behalf of chief diplomat Borrell after the EU tried to publish a joint statement by 27 countries, which was not supported by "one particular" country, meaning Hungary.

Rikard Jozwiak, Radio Liberty's Europe editor, confirmed that Hungary blocked the joint statement. It is noteworthy that the Hungarian portal 444.hu is among the European media outlets whose activities have been restricted by Russia.

Quote: "This decision further restricts access to free and independent information and expands the already severe media censorship in Russia. The banned European media work according to journalistic principles and standards. 

They give factual information, also to Russian audiences, including on Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine," Borrell’s statement says.  

More details: The diplomat stressed that the Russian disinformation and propaganda outlets against which the EU has imposed restrictive measures are not free and independent media. Their broadcasting in the EU has been suspended because they are run by the Russian authorities and play an important role in supporting the war against Ukraine.

Quote: "Respect for the freedom of expression and media is a core value for the EU. It will continue supporting availability of factual information also to audiences in Russia," the statement says.  

Background:

• On 25 June, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow was imposing broadcast and access restrictions on 81 European media outlets.
• Among those affected by Russia's sanctions are Germany's Spiegel, Zeit and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung; Spain's Mundo, Pais and EFE; Italy's Stampa, Repubblica and RAI; France's Le Monde, Liberation and France-Presse; and Europe's Politico and Euobserver.
• Moscow said that these were measures in response to the Council of the EU's 17 May decision to ban Russian propaganda media: RIA Novosti, Izvestia and Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

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