Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that RT's operations have expanded far beyond journalism, now constituting a significant part of Russia's covert influence and cyber intelligence efforts.
The State Department's statement clarified that while the U.S. upholds freedom of expression, it will combat covert influence activities that threaten democratic integrity, distinguishing them from legitimate journalism.
Blinken noted the necessity for global allies to recognize and respond to RT's actions not just as a media entity, but akin to intelligence operations within their own countries.
Following sanctions against RT's parent companies, Blinken highlighted that these entities are integral to Moscow’s strategy of undermining democracies, functioning as an extension of Russia's intelligence community.
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