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BBC Russian Thrives Amid Censorship, Reaches 12 Million Weekly

3/29/2026

35 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

BBC Russian was launched in 1946 to provide an alternative to state propaganda.
It faced jamming and signal interference in the Soviet era.
The service gained popularity during pivotal moments, including the death of Leonid Brezhnev.
Today BBC Russian operates from Riga after staff left Russia due to new laws against objective reporting.
It now reaches up to 12 million people weekly, underscoring its ongoing relevance amid increasing censorship.

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Story summary

BBC Russian was launched in 1946 to provide an alternative to state propaganda.
It faced jamming and signal interference in the Soviet era.
The service gained popularity during pivotal moments, including the death of Leonid Brezhnev.
Today BBC Russian operates from Riga after staff left Russia due to new laws against objective reporting.
It now reaches up to 12 million people weekly, underscoring its ongoing relevance amid increasing censorship.