France proposes sanctions to combat Russian disinformation – Bloomberg

France has proposed that the European Union impose sanctions against Russian disinformation and election interference operations around the world.

This was reported by Bloomberg.

Paris's proposal will allow the EU to strengthen sanctions against individuals and entities involved in Russian-sponsored destabilizing activities around the world. The introduction of such sanctions has already been supported by Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Poland.

The draft document states that "destabilizing activities executed by Russia-related actors have increased everywhere in Europe as well – as the Russian regime has taken actions to undermine democracy, stability, and the rule of law through a variety of hybrid instruments".

In the run-up to the EU parliamentary elections in June, the EU has made it a priority to combat the rising tide of Russian disinformation that seeks to divide allies on issues such as support for Ukraine and damage relations with countries in the so-called Global South.

The G7 countries are also preparing joint actions beyond previous warnings to combat foreign information manipulation and interference, with a particular focus on this year's elections.

Author – Anastasiya Glotova, 24/04/2024