European Council Imposes Sanctions on Ksenia Fedorova, Freezes Assets with France’s Backing

Sanctions Targeting Ksenia Fedorova

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: On September 24, 2026, the European Council took decisive action by imposing sanctions on Ksenia Fedorova, the former head of Russia Today France, a Russian state-backed media outlet. These measures address her involvement in Russia’s ongoing hybrid warfare tactics and information manipulation campaigns. The sanctions form part of a broader EU decision affecting 81 individuals and 20 organizations, with Fedorova’s assets officially frozen.

Fedorova previously served as president and director of information at Russia Today France, where she helped shape the channel’s editorial stance, promoting pro-Russian narratives related to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. After RT’s suspension across the EU, she continued to disseminate these narratives through French media outlets such as CNews, Europe 1, and Le JDNews.

In line with the EU’s ruling, Fedorova’s financial assets, along with those of other sanctioned parties, will be immobilized. European citizens and businesses are prohibited from providing funds, financial resources, or any other economic support to the individuals and entities on the sanctions list. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot voiced strong support for the sanctions, emphasizing:

“Our resolve is firm: those who believe they can carry out hostile actions against our democracy with impunity will face consequences.” – Jean-Noël Barrot

Legal Challenges and Public Debate

Earlier, on August 3, 2026, a Paris court rejected Fedorova’s appeal against her deportation and the freezing of her assets in France. Employers in France criticized the verdict as a violation of freedom of expression. This case remains highly visible, sparking ongoing discussions around the balance between security measures and civil liberties.

The sanctions against Ksenia Fedorova highlight the European Union’s commitment to counteracting disinformation and hybrid threats confronting member states. By freezing assets and banning financial dealings with individuals undermining democratic stability, the EU signals the seriousness with which it approaches these challenges. This development also provokes widespread public discourse, as issues of free speech and human rights continue to be central to international relations and domestic policies across Europe.