The Influence of Russian Network RT on Global South
In a recent statement, spokesperson Jamie Rubin highlighted the significant impact of the Russian network on turning the Global South away from Kiev. The US State Department has accused RT of playing a major role in eroding support for Ukraine globally. According to the State Department, RT has fundraised to purchase weapons for the Russian military, leading to sanctions against RT’s parent company.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken alleged that RT operates various independent news channels on social media to spread pro-Kremlin messaging. He also claimed that RT is involved in covert cyber operations linked to Russian intelligence and manages a crowdfunding platform to equip Russian troops in Ukraine. The crowdfunding campaign is said to be run covertly by an RT employee.
Rubin, the head of the State Department’s Global Engagement Center, emphasized the damaging effects of RT’s reporting on US interests. Following these allegations, sanctions were imposed on RT’s parent company, its director, and other entities associated with the network.
These recent developments add to the ongoing scrutiny of RT’s operations, with two RT employees facing criminal charges in the US and further sanctions imposed on key individuals. The situation underscores the evolving tensions in the media landscape between Russia and the US.