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Reuters Deletes Putin-Xi Video, Sparking Press Freedom Concerns

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Reuters deleted footage of a conversation between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping about organ transplantation and immortality following a takedown request from China Central Television (CCTV).
The video aired during a September 3 Victory Day Parade in China.
Reuters cited a lack of legal permission for the removal but reaffirmed its commitment to accurate journalism.
Critics, including the Freedom of the Press Foundation, claim this action threatens press freedom.
Reuters has a history of removing content at the request of international authorities.

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Story summary

Reuters deleted footage of a conversation between Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping about organ transplantation and immortality following a takedown request from China Central Television (CCTV).
The video aired during a September 3 Victory Day Parade in China.
Reuters cited a lack of legal permission for the removal but reaffirmed its commitment to accurate journalism.
Critics, including the Freedom of the Press Foundation, claim this action threatens press freedom.
Reuters has a history of removing content at the request of international authorities.