“Roskomnadzor warns the Russian media not to publish this interview,” the agency said in its statement. “The media outlets conducting the interviews will be subject to scrutiny to determine the extent of responsibility and the appropriate response to be taken.”
Zelensky said Sunday that Moscow was “frightened” by the truth.
“[They] destroyed freedom of speech in their state — [and are] trying to destroy the neighboring state. They portray themselves as global players. And they themselves are afraid of a relatively short conversation with several journalists,” he said during a video address.
“Well, if there’s such reaction — then we are doing everything right. [It] means they are nervous,” added Zelensky.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN Monday that Russia was not afraid.
“We have laws in place, and it is very important not to publish information that would amount to a violation of these laws,” Peskov added.
Moscow has cracked down on independent media in the weeks after President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine, and many Russian journalists have left their home country. Access to foreign media such as the BBC has been restricted.
Russian lawmakers have also criminalized the spread of “fake” information that discredits the Russian armed forces or calls for sanctions against the country.
