French Protests Show Need for State Control Over Social Media, Putin Says
Russia-linked disinformation networks have themselves been accused of exploiting the French protests.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for increased state control over social media platforms to ensure national security, referencing the recent protests in France. During a meeting with African delegates at the Russia-Africa summit in Moscow, Putin mentioned French authorities' struggles to regulate foreign-owned social networks amid the unrest.
He stated that these platforms are significantly influencing events in French cities but have limited control over their operations. Putin suggested that all nations should exercise oversight over such platforms for the sake of security. The unrest in France, sparked by rising costs and deteriorating living conditions, has seen millions of people take to the streets.
Russia has been accused of employing disinformation tactics to exploit these protests, with researchers identifying a campaign linking social discontent to the nation's support for Ukraine. Russia ranks poorly in internet freedom, securing only four out of 100 points, placing it among nations like Iran, China, and Pakistan. The country actively blocks or restricts major global platforms such as YouTube, X, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Telegram, along with independent news outlets.
Russian authorities also ban protests at home using restrictive laws and COVID-19 measures. The Moscow Times, a Russian news outlet, has been labeled an "undesirable organization," which has hindered its operations and put staff at risk.
Written by urgent.news from The Moscow Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
