The BBC has resumed English language reporting in Russia after temporarily suspending the work of its news journalists and support staff in the country.
The broadcaster said it had “considered the implications” of new Russian legislation that would make it a criminal offence to spread “fake” or “false” news about the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.
The corporation announced that after “careful deliberation” it will continue English language reporting from Tuesday evening.
Update on broadcasting from inside Russia https://t.co/aeFvAoSFI8 pic.twitter.com/VnYhsdWiiG
— BBC News Press Team (@BBCNewsPR) March 8, 2022
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In a statement, the BBC said: “We have considered the implications of the new legislation alongside the urgent need to report from inside Russia.
“After careful deliberation we have decided to resume English language reporting from Russia this evening, after it was temporarily suspended at the end of last week.
“We will tell this crucial part of the story independently and impartially, adhering to the BBC’s strict editorial standards.
“The safety of our staff in Russia remains our number one priority.”
On Friday, the BBC temporarily suspended the work of all its news journalists and support staff in Russia after authorities passed legislation cracking down on foreign outlets.
The Russian Duma approved a law making it a criminal offence, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, for the publication of “fake news” concerning its armed forces.
Director-general Tim Davie previously said the new law appeared to “criminalise the process of independent journalism” in the country.
It came after the Kremlin accused the BBC of playing a “determined role in undermining the Russian stability and security”.
