Russian Journalists' Olympic Accreditation Revoked in Paris

Four Russian journalists had their accreditations for the Paris Olympics revoked by the organizing committee, citing a decision by French authorities. TASS, Russia's state-run news agency, reported the decision as unexpected and linked it to espionage concerns previously expressed by France.

In a surprising move, the Paris Olympic organizing committee has revoked the accreditations of four Russian journalists, according to TASS, Russia's state-run news agency. The decision, reportedly initiated by French authorities, lacked further explanation, TASS said.

TASS noted that three of the four journalists had already covered the opening ceremony and other events without any issues. The state-run agency also highlighted that French officials had previously declined accreditation for some Russian journalists, citing fears of espionage.

Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for Russia's foreign ministry, criticized French President Emmanuel Macron, arguing that protecting free speech seemed to be an empty promise from his administration.