YouTube has announced that it has blocked content from Russia Today in the UK and across Europe following the invasion of Ukraine.
The news comes days after the European Union decided to block broadcast of the channel, which has a pro-Russian stance on the war, across its 27 territories.
In the UK, TV regulator Ofcom is conducting an urgent review of RT's broadcast licence - although there are some concerns that a ban could lead to a retaliation, with the BBC World News channel potentially being taken off air in Russia in response.
YouTube has blocked all RT content in the UK already, however, and users now see the message: "This channel is not available in your country."
A spokesperson for the video platform said: "Due to the ongoing war in Ukraine, we're blocking YouTube channels connected to RT and Sputnik across Europe, effective immediately.
"It'll take time for our systems to fully ramp up. Our teams continue to monitor the situation around the clock to take swift action."
As things stand, Russia Today has around 4.5 million subscribers to its channel on YouTube.
Neil Wilkes
Follow us on Bluesky or on X/Twitter and like us on Facebook for the latest entertainment news alerts.
Media Mole's Lowest Ever Sky Offer: Get Sky Essential, Sky Stream & Netflix for just £15 a month + £0 upfront fee for 24 months!
Prices may change during this period. Ends March 19, 2025
