On March 4, the Russian parliament approved (here) unanimously and in record speed a law “on liability for false content related to Russian forces”. It provides for draconian punishment for anyone who dares to express criticism or question Putin’s war in Ukraine. As of March 5, the law now covers (here) also criticism of Rosgvardiya, Putin's 300.000-strong militia guard, part of which now operates in occupied areas of Ukraine.
Citizens accused, under this law, face fines of up to 1,5 million rubles (10.000 – 13.000 euros depending on the exchange rate) and up to 15 years in prison or a labor camp for criticizing the war or spreading “false” information from the authorities, i.e. anything that deviates from the official government line.
The law applies to all residents of Russia, both Russian citizens and foreigners.
In Russian content, such legislation paves the way for almost unlimited censorship and self-censorship. It is certain to further stifle dissent in Russia and constitutes the harshest blow to the media and social media in post-Soviet Russia.
Off-air, off-grid, dismantled by Gazprom shareholder
The trend of the law is already visible. The removal of the internet content of the last free radio station, the well-known and balanced Echo Moscow Radio, was carried out under threat of a severe penalty. The radio station was taken off the airwaves (see here) days ago by the Russian state media agency Roskomnadzor. The majority owner of Gazprom Media (yes, that state gas company Gazprom) decided to close the company in what is clearly a political liquidation.
Full article at EU vs Disinfo