Russia Bans Photographers from State Duma Sessions: Political Implications, Historical Context, and Media Freedom Under Putin

Russia’s Media Landscape and Propaganda Strategies

State-Controlled Media Outlets

RT, Sputnik, and other state-funded outlets serve as key tools for disseminating Kremlin narratives abroad and controlling the domestic information environment. These outlets often dismiss Western criticism as biased or malicious.

Disinformation Campaigns and Cyber Warfare

Russia has been accused of orchestrating disinformation campaigns, election interference, and cyberattacks targeting Western democracies. These strategies aim to weaken Western alliances and promote a narrative favorable to Moscow.

The Role of Social Media

Social media platforms are battlegrounds for influence operations. Russian trolls and bots have been active in shaping online discourse, spreading false information, and amplifying divisive content.

February 20, 2026 | 8:52 am