French media regulator Arcom has directed satellite provider Eutelsat to stop broadcasting two Russian TV channels, STS and Channel 5, following an investigation that revealed Eutelsat’s commercial agreements were linked to a sanctioned entity. The channels are controlled by Russia’s National Media Group, which has been subject to European sanctions since December 2022.
The decision came after Arcom received multiple requests from non-governmental organizations calling for action against Eutelsat. The regulator stated that, due to the financial resources of National Media Group being frozen, the channels must be removed from distribution. Eutelsat confirmed it would comply with Arcom’s directive and cease broadcasting the channels within the stipulated three-day period.
Eutelsat clarified that National Media Group was not its direct client but that of an intermediary distributor. The channels are transmitted via Eutelsat’s capacity on the Eutelsat 36C satellite, which is operated by Russian Satellite Communications Company (RSCC).
Failure to comply could lead to sanctions, including fines. The regulator also alerted internet providers about non-compliant content, which was subsequently removed. Arcom continues to investigate other channels that may not adhere to sanctions.
