A Russian deputy from the Fair Russia – For Truth party called on streaming platforms to remove songs that advocate violence against Russians. The claim originated from the Baza Telegram channel, which reported that lawmakers identified tracks circulating in music markets that praise the Ukrainian armed forces and incite violence toward Russians.
In remarks delivered to reporters, the deputy stated that the current situation cannot be tolerated. He noted that letters requesting the removal of the music had been dispatched, and he warned that if such requests continue to be needed, it would reveal gaps in the existing legal framework.
Earlier this year Russia took a hard line against content deemed illegal within its borders on global platforms. In a separate case, a Moscow court imposed a fine on Twitch for broadcasting an interview with Oleksiy Arestovich, a former adviser to Ukraine’s president, totaling 4 million rubles.
Twitch, a live streaming service popular among Russian broadcasters, is owned by Twitch Interactive, a subsidiary of Amazon. The platform has faced scrutiny in Russia over how it handles content that local authorities deem prohibited, including political commentary and statements from public figures. The ongoing regulatory tension reflects broader debates about censorship, freedom of expression, and the responsibilities of international tech companies operating under diverse legal regimes.
Observers note that the dispute underscores the challenge for streaming services in balancing compliance with national laws and preserving access to diverse viewpoints. In the Russian context, official responses often emphasize punitive measures for content classified as extremist or harmful to national security, while critics argue that such controls can limit open discussion and information flow. The situation also highlights how digital platforms navigate restrictions on news, interviews, and cultural content without abruptly removing entire services or discouraging user engagement. The debate continues as lawmakers in several countries reassess how to regulate online media, protect residents from harmful material, and maintain a competitive, open internet environment for creators and audiences alike. The outcome of these discussions will likely influence how platforms manage user-generated content, licensing, and regional access going forward. This episode illustrates the intense attention paid to media content in conflict-adjacent regions and the ongoing negotiation between platform policies and state demands for compliance. Citations: source reports from the Baza Telegram channel and official court actions are referenced for context and verification.