Russia’s censorship agency Roskomnadzor has stated that media outlets spreading “false information” about mobilisation will be immediately blocked, the agency wrote on its Telegram channel.
“Roskomnadzor would like to notify all media outlets and information sources on the need to use the information and data received solely from the federal and regional executive bodies when preparing and publishing materials related to the organisation of mobilisation events on the territory of the Russian Federation,” the message reads.
The spread of false information can lead to administrative charges for “abusing the freedom of mass information”, the censorship agency reminded. The content of such media outlets will be blocked.
Roskomnadzor published a similar message on 24 February, when the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. The agency urged media outlets to only write about the war citing official sources, namely the Russian Ministry of Defence, otherwise their content would be deemed “fake news”.
On 21 September, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced partial mobilisation in Russia. According to the presidential order, those who previously served in the Armed Forces, have certain military occupational specialties and the corresponding experience are eligible for mobilisation. Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu stated that a total of 300,000 reservists would be drafted.
