France orders the expulsion of Russian journalist Xenia Fedorova, a former head of RT France, citing allegations that she has spread Kremlin propaganda through French television and radio. French authorities say the decision is linked to her activity as a media commentator and RT France editor, including appearances connected to French broadcast outlets.
According to multiple reports, France’s interior ministry issues an expulsion order and the measure takes effect after the move is announced on Wednesday. The Kyiv Post reports that Fedorova is placed under house arrest and required to report daily to police.
The decision draws a dispute with Russia. RFI reports that Russia’s foreign ministry accuses France of “silencing dissent” and suppressing freedom of expression in connection with the expulsion, alongside a claim that French authorities freeze Fedorova’s assets.
France’s interior minister Laurent Nunez also defends the action, saying it does not infringe freedom of expression.
Several outlets note that tensions around Fedorova date back to 2017, when Emmanuel Macron publicly criticized her over alleged defamatory falsehoods. The expulsion is also described as occurring amid sensitivities around the next year’s French presidential election.
