Xenia Fedorova to return to French media via video link despite expulsion

Xenia Fedorova, the former editor-in-chief of the Russian state-owned outlet Russia Today (RT), is set to return to French television as a commentator via video link. Despite being expelled from France in late July following accusations of involvement in Kremlin-orchestrated disinformation campaigns, Fedorova will appear on CNews, a channel owned by billionaire Vincent Bolloré.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed deep disappointment regarding the move, describing himself as “heartbroken” and “afflicted.” Barrot accused Fedorova of acting as a “Kremlin propaganda agent” and questioned why media outlets provide platforms to individuals who have been legally expelled for attempting to destabilize French public order.

Fedorova, who has long-standing ties to Bolloré’s media empire, maintains that her expulsion constitutes “political persecution.” The decision to allow her to broadcast remotely has raised concerns in France regarding the potential influence of Russian-aligned narratives on public debate, particularly leading up to the 2027 presidential elections.