CNN granted new Russian licence

Russian media regulator Roskomnadzor has reportedly approved US news channel CNN’s application for a new broadcast licence.

According to reports by the Moscow Times and RBC news agency, the move paves the way for CNN to return to the Russian airwaves after it ceased broadcasting in the country in December.

CNN cut its Russian presence after the firm’s parent company Turner International said in November that it was “assessing its distribution options” in light of the new media regulations.

However, in a statement issued last month, Turner said that it had held a “productive meeting with the regulator to discuss our mutual interest in getting CNN International back in Russia and the procedural requirements for doing so.”

“We welcomed the opportunity to reiterate in person Turner International’s commitment to a long-term presence in Russia. We look forward to resuming distribution for CNN International in Russia as soon as possible,” said Turner in the statement.

CNN was reported to have applied for a new licence to broadcast in Russia earlier this month.