Asger Risom
Former RT France executive Xenia Fedorova is once again appearing on French prime-time television, raising concerns that Kremlin narratives are re-entering mainstream European media despite EU sanctions.
French television channels are once again airing voices closely tied to the Kremlin, despite European sanctions that shut down Russia’s state-backed media operations across the EU.
The return is happening through mainstream conservative programming in France, where former RT France executive Xenia Fedorova has become a recurring commentator on prime-time news shows ahead of the country’s 2027 presidential election.
A new platform
According to POLITICO, Fedorova now appears regularly on CNews and Europe 1 after RT France was banned following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Critics argue the broadcasts allow Kremlin-aligned narratives about NATO, Ukraine and Western foreign policy to reach large French audiences with little resistance from hosts or fellow guests.
One recent appearance drew backlash after Fedorova argued on air that “it’s the West who decided to prolong this conflict,” echoing a long-running Russian talking point surrounding failed 2022 peace negotiations.
Growing alarm
French lawmakers and disinformation researchers say the issue goes beyond one television personality.
The concern, they argue, is that Russian state narratives are re-entering mainstream European media through commentators rather than officially sanctioned broadcasters.
Valérie Hayer, an ally of French President Emmanuel Macron and leader of the Renew group in the European Parliament, filed a complaint with France’s media regulator after one of Fedorova’s television appearances.
“People are entitled to their political opinions,” lawmaker Natalia Pouzyreff told POLITICO. “The crucial point is that Xenia Fedorova’s remarks almost touch on matters of national security; they bear the unmistakable mark of the Kremlin.”
After RT France
RT France was banned by the European Union in 2022 as part of sanctions targeting Russian state media following the invasion of Ukraine.
Before its closure, the network had gained attention in France for its sympathetic coverage of anti-government protests and criticism of NATO and Western institutions.
Media analysts now warn that shutting down official outlets may not be enough if the same messaging can still spread through established national broadcasters.
The debate is expected to intensify as France prepares for a highly sensitive presidential election campaign in 2027.
Sources: POLITICO
