German and Russian media clash leads to journalist expulsions in both countries

In a media-related dispute that happened about a year ago Maria Zakharova from Russias Foreign Ministry announced removing two ARD journalists from Moscow because of supposed actions against Channel One staff in Berlin (which included a reporter and camera operator)

WDR‚ ARDs regional branch thats responsible for Russia coverage stated its deep-rooted worries about the situation: theyʼve been dealing with work-related problems in Moscow since around four years ago. Joerg Schoenenborn the programming director explained how this decision impacts their news-gathering abilities; the organization is now checking different ways to keep working in the russian capital

The german governments position contradicts russias story-line: their foreign ministry rep made it clear that Channel Ones Berlin office wasnt being closed down. He pointed-out that the russian journalists departure was connected to residence permits which are managed by regional authorities not the federal level. The spokesperson also mentioned that many russian reporters still work in Germany with proper press-office papers

Channel One gave a different view saying Germany made their staff leave due to security-related concerns. Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow would think about letting new ARD journalists work if Berlin lets Channel One staff do their job properly. She mentioned that the affected german media workers must give back their work permits

The situation shows how both countries deal with foreign press:

• German side says russian reporters can work without limits
• Regional states handle residence permits on their own
• Russia wants equal treatment for its media staff
• Both sides have different views on whats happening