MOSCOW — On Wednesday, Russia’s Foreign Ministry announced the revocation of accreditation for two employees of the German ARD broadcaster, also mandating their departure from the country. This action was characterized as a retaliatory measure in response to the actions taken by German authorities against two journalists affiliated with Russia’s state television.

During a press briefing in Moscow, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova indicated that there might be an opportunity for new accreditations for other ARD staff if Germany permits journalists from Russia’s Channel One to operate within its borders.

In contrast, a spokesperson from the German Foreign Ministry, Christian Wagner, refuted claims made by the Russian broadcaster that the German government had shut down Channel One’s office. Wagner emphasized during a news conference that, “The federal government has not closed the office of this broadcaster,” asserting that Russian reporters are free to operate in Germany without hindrance.

Wagner shared his thoughts on the situation surrounding the residence status of some journalists, implying that such matters are beyond the jurisdiction of federal authority and are adjudicated by state authorities, which act on an independent basis.

It is worthwhile to note that Channel One has faced European Union sanctions since December 2022, an outcome of escalating tensions between Moscow and Western nations due to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. These sanctions have barred the broadcaster from airing in Europe; however, they do not prohibit the presence of its employees working from Berlin.

Reacting to the news regarding the accreditation withdrawal of ARD personnel in Moscow, Wagner expressed that if the reported information is accurate, it would certainly warrant a strong condemnation.