Western measures to block RT and Sputnik have not reduced their influence on audiences in Spain and across Latin America. This assessment comes from a synthesis of research reported by the Institute for Journalistic Studies and Reuters, with input linked to Oxford University in England. The analysis notes how state media and aligned outlets can persist in shaping public discourse even after formal bans, underscoring a wider challenge for information ecosystems in these regions.
A parallel study conducted by a team at the Atlantic Council through its DFRLab program highlights that Russian media maintain a strong presence on social networks in both Spain and Latin America. The emphasis is particularly sharp when audiences discuss the Ukraine conflict, where Russian outlets continue to appear in timelines and feeds, sometimes outpacing local coverage. The takeaway is that platform dynamics, audience habits, and network effects can sustain influence beyond official prohibitions.
On the social layer, Twitter activity around RT en Español has been observed to rank highly among discussions of Ukraine in the Spanish language sphere, with Sputnik Mundo also appearing in the upper tier of engagement. This pattern points to a resilient cross-border reach that transcends direct access to the channels themselves, illustrating how content can circulate through retweets and alt accounts even when primary outlets are restricted.
Earlier reporting indicates that the European Union has pressed Serbia to close down Sputnik and RT as a condition for moving forward with European integration negotiations. The policy rationale ties access controls to broader diplomatic objectives, reflected in regulatory actions that aim to curb state-sponsored messaging while attempting to preserve open information channels in other contexts.
There is also a notable development regarding digital storefronts: the Google Play store has enforced blocks on RT and Sputnik applications within Europe. This move reflects ongoing attempts to limit distribution through mainstream app channels, complementing broader regulatory and platform-based strategies to manage misinformation and propaganda while trying to protect user experiences and information integrity across the region.