The BBC vowed on Friday to “continue our efforts” to broadcast in Russia after its website was blocked by the authorities.
Access to the BBC Russia site was restricted after the Kremlin accused the broadcaster of playing a “determined role in undermining the Russian stability and security”.
A BBC spokesman said: “Access to accurate, independent information is a fundamental human right which should not be denied to the people of Russia, millions of whom rely on BBC News every week.
“We will continue our efforts to make BBC News available in Russia and across the rest of the world.”
Earlier this week the corporation revealed the audience for its Russian language website had more than tripled since the invasion of Ukraine with a record audience of 10.7 million people logging on. Director General Tim Davie said they would “continue giving the Russian people access to the truth, however we can.”
Russia’s communications watchdog has also moved to block US-funded Radio Liberty and the Meduza media outlet, the RIA news agency reported today, as Moscow’s information war intensfied.
The Russian Parliament has passed a bill introducing sentences of up to 15 years in prison for intentionally spreading “fake” information about military action, Russian state news agencies reported.
Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova condemned the banning of Russian media RT and Sputnik and accused Western media of only reporting one side.
Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries told the House of Commons RT should lose its licence and “never again” be able to broadcast “poisonous propaganda”.
Russia further stepped up pressure on free media yesterday with one station, TV Rain, being closed down for its independent reporting.
Staff were shown walking off set after completing their last broadcast.
The BBC has received plaudits for its coverage of the war with many of its leading figures including news anchor Clive Myrie reporting from Kyiv.
