Russia has asked Google to unblock more than 200 Russian YouTube channels blocked for “Kremlin propaganda.” The request comes amid regular threats against the video hosting service, AFP reports.
The request came from Russia’s communications watchdog Roskomnadzor, which sent a request to Google CEO Sundar Pichai to unblock YouTube for more than 200 channels of media outlets, government agencies, sports clubs, as well as politicians and artists who support Russian politicians, the state agency TASS reports.
The source did not specify whether the message was accompanied by an ultimatum or a threat to block the site in Russia.
In the wake of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine in February 2022, the US digital giant and a number of other social media players blocked the accounts of Russian state-funded media outlets and personalities on charges of disinformation or propaganda.
The Russian government, which continues to witness “Russophobia,” has significantly tightened its control over the Internet, banning a number of sites where Kremlin critics could freely express their opinions, such as Facebook.
However, YouTube, whose Russian alter ego Rutube remains unpopular, has never been blocked.
However, there are rumors about its ban, especially since in March 2022 Roskomnadzor accused Google and YouTube of “terrorist” activity.
On Friday, Russian telecom operator Rostelecom announced a “slowdown” of YouTube, citing technical problems and Google’s failure to provide further updates following Russia’s attack on Ukraine.