Meta bans RT days after U.S. accused Russian outlet of disinformation
NBCSep 22
Meta Bans Russian State Media Outlets
Above: A television broadcaster interviews a guest on the set of RT.com at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, on May 25, 2018. Image copyright: Andrey Rudakov/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram owner Meta has banned Russian state media networks, including RT and Rossiya Segodnya, from its platforms globally for their alleged "foreign interference activity."
The ban comes after the US Justice Department recently filed money-laundering charges against two RT employees for their alleged involvement in a scheme to influence the 2024 presidential election.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Russia's influence tactics have sown chaos and division in various countries. From orchestrating inflammatory incidents in Paris to cyberattacks against European nations, the Kremlin has disregarded sovereignty and international norms, caused destabilization, and undermined public trust.
Establishment-critical narrative
The West's susceptibility to disinformation stems more from internal issues like political disillusionment and sensationalist media than Russian machinations. This panic over Russian influence risks pushing the West towards counterproductive propaganda efforts, potentially compromising its values.
Narrative C
While foreign interference attempts exist, their actual impact remains questionable. Overemphasizing this threat enables authoritarian governments to tighten restrictions and deflect focus from critical issues. The focus ought to be on rebuilding institutions and improving democratic participation.