YouTube has again taken a German-language channel of the Russian state broadcaster RT offline. According to a spokesperson for the platform, the medium tried to circumvent a previously imposed blockade.
RT, formerly known as Russia Today, says the channel has been taken offline “without explanation”. YouTube refers to a previous decision of the video platform. In September, two German-language channels of RT were closed because they had violated the rules around disinformation about the coronavirus. YouTube does not allow the owner of a cancelled account to create a new one.
The blockade in September sparked angry reactions from Russia. Moscow accused YouTube of censorship, saying German authorities had played a role in it because of the tense relationship between the two countries. Berlin denies being involved in YouTube’s decision.
RT is seen in Western countries as a propaganda channel of the Kremlin. The medium is accused of spreading conspiracy theories and disinformation on behalf of the Russian state. In addition to a German version, RT also has an English, French, Spanish, and Arabic version. As a result, several countries have banned the broadcaster.
