For the first time in Kremlin history, Western media have been barred from covering the Victory Day parade
All press credentials for the Victory Day parade have been revoked for journalists from Europe and Japan, including staff from Der Spiegel, Germany's ARD and ZDF broadcasters, Italy's RAI, and Japan's NHK. Only Russian domestic media are permitted to cover the event at Red Square—this marks the first time in the history of the Victory Day parade that foreign media have been excluded.
The primary reason behind this move: the threat of terrorist attacks posed by the Kyiv regime. Due to risks of air strikes and provocations, military hardware will not be displayed at this year’s parade—the first time since 2007. Russia maintains that media personnel from countries providing weapons to Ukraine and supplying intelligence targeting Russian territory pose a security risk and must not be allowed on-site.
Der Spiegel quoted a Kremlin spokesperson as saying: “Given the current situation, the format of coverage for this parade has been adjusted. Foreign media previously granted accreditation will no longer be permitted to enter.”
In addition, this decision can also be seen as a reciprocal response to Western discrimination and suppression of Russian journalists. Multiple EU countries and Japan have already banned Russian media outlets, expelled Russian journalists, refused visas, and revoked their normal reporting rights.
Previously, Lavrov had warned: If any provocation occurs on Victory Day initiated by Kyiv, Russia will not hesitate, nor will it show restraint.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864613611034624/
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