Russian pundit Sergei Markov rejects “foreign agent” label UPDATED

Russian political pundit Sergei Markov has dismissed his designation as a “foreign agent” by the Ministry of Justice, calling the move an attack orchestrated by opponents of Russia and President Vladimir Putin’s policies.

“I am not a foreign agent. Everyone knows that very well. For 25 years, I have supported and continue to support Vladimir Putin’s policies. And I am under Canadian sanctions,” Markov wrote on his Telegram channel, Caliber.Az reports. 

The commentator argued that the decision was politically motivated, claiming it was initiated by those "hostile to Russia’s leadership."

“The attack against me is being carried out by enemies of Russia and enemies of Vladimir Putin’s policies. They will either reveal themselves as traitors in the future or be dismissed as corrupt officials,” Markov stated.

19:01

Russian pundit Sergei Markov has been added to the list of “foreign agents” by the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation.

In its statement, the ministry said Markov had engaged in the “creation and distribution of content produced by individuals and organisations already designated as foreign agents,” and had also allegedly shared materials from international groups whose activities are officially considered “undesirable” in Russia, Caliber.Az reports.

Officials further claimed that Markov took part as a respondent on “platforms run by foreign media and other foreign agents,” and that he allegedly “spread false information about decisions of Russian state authorities and their policies.”

By Sabina Mammadli