CNN to pull plug on broadcasting in Russia

CNN said its English-language news channel would not be available after the end of the year “in light of recent changes in Russian media legislation”.

The country has banned advertising on cable and satellite channel, while also preventing foreign companies from owning 20 percent of media outlets from 2016, according to the Financial Times.

Russia also is launching an umbrella brand for its state television, radio and online news, including the Ria Novosti news agency and Voice of Russia radio station. Dubbed Sputnik, the company will launch next year and compete for influence with the likes of CNN, the BBC and Al Jazeera.

Read more from the Financial Times.