Russian Lawmakers Slam U.S. Measures Against RT: A Blow to Free Speech

Russian lawmakers have criticized U.S. punitive measures against the state media group RT, viewing it as an infringement on freedom of speech. These measures are part of a broader effort by U.S. officials to counter what they describe as Russian influence in U.S. elections. Russian officials rebuff these allegations, arguing that U.S. authorities aim to prevent alternative viewpoints.

Russian lawmakers have strongly condemned U.S. punitive actions against the state media group RT, viewing them as an infringement on free speech. This reaction follows Washington's allegations that RT sought to influence the U.S. presidential election.

The U.S. justice department laid money-laundering charges against two RT employees for allegedly hiring a U.S. firm to create online content to sway the election. Past U.S. intelligence reports claim Russian interference in the 2016 and 2020 elections, yet Russia denies these allegations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted no hope for a better U.S.-Russia relationship, regardless of the presidential candidate. Meanwhile, Russian lawmaker Maria Butina completely discarded the meddling claims, suggesting that the U.S. military-industrial complex is the true winner of the elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)