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France warns broadcaster against hosting expelled Russian commentator

French officials warned CNews of criminal liability over planned appearances by Xenia Fedorova, according to France 24.

The short version

  • France's government condemned plans by conservative network CNews to broadcast expelled Russian commentator Xenia Fedorova via video link.[France 24]
  • Interior Minister Laurent Nunez warned that airing Fedorova would violate expulsion and asset-freeze orders and could lead to criminal charges.[France 24]
  • Fedorova, who was expelled in August over alleged Kremlin ties, denied the claims and labeled the move censorship.[France 24]

Key facts

  • France's interior minister warned that any television station rebroadcasting expelled commentator Xenia Fedorova risks criminal proceedings.[France 24]
  • Interior Minister Laurent Nunez stated that broadcasting Fedorova breaches existing expulsion and asset-freezing measures.[France 24]
  • Conservative network CNews indicated that Fedorova would appear on the channel again via video link.[France 24]
  • Fedorova was formally expelled by France in August following allegations that she acted as a Kremlin agent and spread propaganda.[France 24]

What remains uncertain

  • Whether CNews will proceed with the broadcast despite the interior minister's warning of criminal charges remains unconfirmed.[France 24]
  • Fedorova disputes the allegations that she served as a Kremlin agent, calling the measures censorship.[France 24]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.