Russia announced this Wednesday (10.03.2021) that it was slowing down Twitter in retaliation for the company’s alleged refusal not to delete “illegal” content.
Threat of blocking
“The slowdown will apply to 100% of mobile devices and 50% of non-mobile devices,” said media and internet regulator Roskomnadzor, which accused the company of ignoring its requests in this regard for years.
Vladimir Putin’s government also threatened to block the US platform directly if it did not comply with their demands. “If (Twitter) continues to ignore the requirements of the law, the enforcement measures will continue (until it is blocked),” he warned.
Roskomnadzor said there were more than 3,000 posts with illegal content on Twitter as of Wednesday, including child pornography, drug abuse information and calls for minors to commit suicide.
Twitter says it is “deeply concerned” about freedom of expression
The US giant replied hours later, saying it was “deeply concerned” about the impact of the measure on freedom of expression, while denying that it allowed its platform to be used to promote such content.
“Let’s be clear: we have a zero tolerance policy regarding the sexual exploitation of children. Promoting, glorifying or encouraging suicide and self harm is against Twitter rules and we do not allow its use for any illegal behavior, including buying and drug sales, “the company said in a statement.
Rising tensions between Russia and social media over Navalny case
The move intensifies a growing confrontation between Moscow and US social media companies, coming weeks after Russian authorities accused Twitter and other platforms of failing to delete posts that the Russian government said illegally urged children to participate. in the protests against the Kremlin.
Russia has traditionally taken a less active role in internet surveillance than its neighbor China. But he has taken a tougher line as internal political tensions have escalated this year over the arrest and imprisonment of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, sparking historic protests across the country.
afp / reuters / ap // rr
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