YouTube has demonetized Russia’s state-owned media outlet RT, along with some unnamed Russia-based channels. The move prevents the outlets from earning any revenue from their videos.
YouTube has previously said that it will not treat state-funded media channels that follow its community guidelines any differently than other channels when it comes to monetization.
In a statement, YouTube said that it was “pausing a number of channels’ ability to monetize on YouTube, including several Russian channels affiliated with recent sanctions.”
YouTube said that it made the decision based on “extraordinary circumstances.”
Demonetized videos on YouTube also show up less often in the recommended section of the YouTube app and website. This was confirmed by YouTube spokesperson Farshad Shadloo, who also explained that RT and other channels will no longer be available in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Digital Minister Mykhailo Fedorov tweeted that he contacted YouTube “to block the propagandist Russian channels — such as Russia 24, TASS, RIA Novosti.”
