YouTube has de-monetised some Russian YouTube channels over the invasion of Ukraine, according to an AFP report. The most notable of all those hit with restrictions is RT, formerly Russia Today. Aside from being unable to run ads on their videos, the affected channels will get less exposure as YouTube is going to limit how much it recommends their videos.
Commenting about the actions YouTube is taking, a spokesperson said:
“In light of extraordinary circumstances in Ukraine, we're taking a number of actions. Our teams have started to pause the ability for certain channels to monetize on YouTube, including RT's YouTube channels globally. As always, our teams are continuing to monitor closely for new developments, including evaluating what any new sanctions and export controls may mean for YouTube.”
YouTube said it will be surfacing authoritative news content to avert users away from disinformation. While Russian news outlets are putting spin on their coverage to show Russia in a more favourable light, individuals on social media have also shared fake content either maliciously or not knowing that it was fake.
YouTube is not alone in de-monetising Russia’s state-run media outlets, Facebook has also announced that it'd be stopped from monetising content on its platform or publishing advertisements.
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