Germany summons Russian ambassador over expulsion of journalists

Germany summoned Russia's ambassador on Thursday in response to Moscow's expulsion of two German ARD network journalists, accusing Russia of escalating pressure on independent media, according to AFP.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called the expulsions "unacceptable," describing Moscow's justification for the move as a "lie." Speaking at a press conference, Baerbock stated, "It is entirely false that Germany or Europe imposes restrictions on press freedom. There is no basis to link this to the expulsions of ARD employees."

The Russian foreign ministry dismissed Germany's claims as "baseless," with Russia's ambassador rejecting the accusations during the meeting.

The expulsions were reportedly in retaliation for Germany's decision to deny residency extensions to at least two Russian journalists. Baerbock explained that these decisions were made according to German immigration laws and could be appealed.

Russia argued that the residency denials obstructed journalists' work and violated media freedom. Moscow has faced broadcasting bans and restrictions in the West since its full-scale offensive in Ukraine, accused of spreading disinformation through state-controlled media.

In the latest tit-for-tat response, ARD reported that two of its employees in Russia were instructed to surrender their accreditations by December 16.

Baerbock criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for stifling press freedom, stating, "Free reporting is no longer possible in Russia, even for foreign journalists."

Moscow warned that further restrictions on Russian journalists in Germany would be treated as an escalation, promising reciprocal measures.