ALBAWABA - According to RT, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said that the US, the UK, and Canada will launch a coordinated diplomatic campaign against the state-funded Russian news network RT, alleging that it is functioning as an intelligence agency. Blinken pleaded with other countries to take RT's efforts into account as a component of Russian intelligence.
Blinken claims that RT staff members are reportedly engaged in giving several Russian intelligence services military assistance and support. He said, "RT staff are participating in military supplies and assistance for intelligence operations and have direct connections with Russian intelligence services."
Blinken also said that the network is more than just a media platform and has acquired cyber skills that are dangerous for democracy, especially in the US. He underlined that RT personnel actively participate in disseminating Russian disinformation and meddling in American elections.
Already, the United States has placed sanctions on two of RT's employees and three entities connected to the network, including those with operations in Moldova. Blinken pointed out that the network, which is supported by the Kremlin, seeks to threaten not just American democracy but also the sovereignty of other nations.
This diplomatic drive is a major step forward in the West's reaction to Russian influence on media outlets such as RT. Blinken urged allies abroad to do the same and see RT's operations as more than simply news.
