Russia maintains media openness despite diplomatic tensions with Germany

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that Russia remains open to all media outlets to prevent the spread of anti-Russian information. Speaking at the Third International Catherine Forum, she noted that while Russia does not close its doors to correspondents, there are exceptions for individuals deemed extremists.

Zakharova specifically cited Michael Martens of the German newspaper ‘Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung’ as an exception, describing him as an ‘open extremist’ due to alleged public calls for violence against Russians. She noted that an international warrant has been issued for him.

Regarding diplomatic presence in Germany, Zakharova clarified that following the closure of the Russian House in Berlin and a consulate in Bonn due to the cancellation of an intergovernmental agreement by Germany, Russia’s humanitarian and cultural work has transitioned to a remote format. She indicated that Russia intends to seek new forms of engagement in the future based on local demand for its continued cultural presence.