Overview

• The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the expulsion of two ARD employees, a correspondent and a technician, who must leave by December 16, 2024.
• Russia claims the decision is a response to Germany’s alleged closure of the Channel One Berlin bureau, which German authorities strongly deny.
• Germany attributes the issue to state-level immigration decisions tied to EU sanctions on Russian media accused of spreading propaganda and disinformation.
• German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called Russia's actions unacceptable and emphasized Germany’s commitment to press freedom.
• The expulsions highlight escalating tensions between Russia and Western nations over media freedoms and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.