Estonia is analyzing the issue of a possible ban on broadcasting channels related to the Russian oligarch Yuri Kovalchuk, who is included in the EU sanctions list. This was announced by Media Services Advisor of the Department of Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority Peeter Sookruus, ERR reports.

“We are in a stage of analysis and do not plan very quick steps. But all options are possible,” said Sookruus. “In the audiovisual sphere of the state, slightly different rules may be introduced, so they have a slightly different legal space and, accordingly, the ability to respond.”

According to him, the regulators of Latvia and Lithuania have the right to decide on the broadcasting of channels, and in Estonia the Department of Consumer Protection and Technical Regulatory Authority does not have such a right. “Our function is a little different. We can make an order to stop broadcasting the channel for a while, but we do not conduct regular monitoring,” said Sookruus.

The Ministry of Culture noted that sanctions are possible, but are taken rather as an exception, as an addition to the more common financial sanctions, entry bans and arms embargoes.

“Estonia has not provided for such an option of international sanctions in its legislation. However, the above does not mean that amendments should not be discussed if the competent authorities consider it necessary,” said Mati Kaalep, Advisor on Audiovisual Means of the Ministry of Culture.

The Foreign Ministry intends to analyze the situation. “We will consult with our Latvian colleagues and the European Commission on the exact reasons and grounds for imposing sanctions and analyze the decision,” said Inga Bowden, spokeswoman for the foreign ministry of Estonia.

The National Council for Electronic Media of Latvia decided last week to ban the transmission of nine Russian television channels in the country. At the same time, the agency referred to the connection of the TV channels with Yuri Kovalchuk, included in the list of EU sanctions for undermining the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.