Finance

Germany says Russia using media platform Red to sow discontent

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 2, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 23, 2026

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BERLIN (Reuters) -Russia is using the online media outlet Red to sow discontent in German society as part of a disinformation campaign waged alongside its war in Ukraine, the foreign ministry in

Germany Accuses Russia of Using Red Media to Create Social Unrest

BERLIN (Reuters) -Russia is using the online media outlet Red to sow discontent in German society as part of a disinformation campaign waged alongside its war in Ukraine, the foreign ministry in Berlin said on Wednesday.

"Red presents itself as a revolutionary platform for independent journalists. However, it has close links with the Russian state media outlet RT," a spokesperson for the foreign ministry told reporters in Berlin.

"Today we can confirm that Red is being used by Russia specifically to manipulate information," the spokesperson added.

Red is run by Turkish media company AFA Medya, which together with its founder Huseyin Dogru is already the subject of EU sanctions targeting Russia and is accused of "undermining the democratic political process" in Germany.

After they were sanctioned, Red announced on May 16 that it was closing down.

(Reporting by Rachel More and Miranda MurrayEditing by Madeline Chambers)

Key Takeaways

  • Germany accuses Russia of using Red media for disinformation.
  • Red is linked to Russian state media outlet RT.
  • Red is operated by Turkish company AFA Medya.
  • AFA Medya and its founder are under EU sanctions.
  • Red announced closure after sanctions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the media outlet Red according to Germany?
Germany claims that Russia is using the online media outlet Red to sow discontent in German society as part of a disinformation campaign.
Who runs the media outlet Red?
Red is run by the Turkish media company AFA Medya, which is already subject to EU sanctions.
What did Germany confirm about Red's usage?
A spokesperson for the foreign ministry confirmed that Red is being used by Russia specifically to manipulate information.
What happened to Red after the sanctions?
After being sanctioned, Red announced on May 16 that it was closing down.
What are the accusations against AFA Medya?
AFA Medya and its founder Huseyin Dogru are accused of undermining democratic political processes.

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