Kremlin Cancels Accreditation of Foreign Media

The Kremlin has canceled the accreditations of foreign journalists who were previously approved to cover the May 9 Victory Parade in Moscow. This was reported by Spiegel.

According to the publication, the media outlets were notified of the cancellation via phone. Spiegel notes that journalists from German ARD and ZDF, Sky, French AFP agency, Italian Rai television, and Japanese NHK have lost their accreditations.

A Kremlin representative explained to Spiegel that due to the current situation, the format of the parade coverage has been changed. He added, “Therefore, foreign media that had already been granted accreditation will not be allowed.”

For other media that were left unaccredited, the Kremlin representative stated, “Entry is only permitted for Russian media.”

Spiegel emphasizes that this is the first time in history that accreditations previously granted by the Kremlin for the events of May 9 in Moscow have been subsequently revoked.

The Russian authorities have not officially commented on the news regarding the absence of foreign press. The day before, Russian President's press secretary Dmitry Peskov stated that there would be no new changes to the format of the parade; it will take place without military equipment and the “Immortal Regiment” action will be held online. Seven foreign delegations are expected to participate in Moscow.