TikTok has just announced that it has suspended live streaming and new content to its video service. This is in response to Russia's recently passed 'fake news' law.
The law, which was approved by Russia's parliament on Friday, threatens prison terms for anyone who publishes what the Kremlin deems to be false information about the country's invasion of Ukraine. Those found guilty of spreading false data about the Russian armed forces will face up to 15 years in prison or a fine of 1.5 million rubles.
TikTok has decided to suspend operations in Russia to safeguard the safety of employees and users who may use the app to provide a source of help and connection during wartime.
"In light of Russia's new 'fake news' law, we have no choice but to suspend live streaming and new content to our video services while we review the security implications of this law," TikTok said on Twitter.
"We will continue to evaluate the evolving circumstances in Russia to determine when we can fully resume our services with safety as our top priority."
The Kremlin describes its actions in Ukraine as a "special military operation" and a "peacekeeping mission", so any description to the contrary could be dangerous. This new law, as well as Russia's decision to block Facebook and Twitter, demonstrates the government's push to withhold any narrative that contradicts official Kremlin statements or exposes the country's military's role in fueling a humanitarian crisis.
Later the government of Vladimir Putin had to face anti-war protests from the people in Russia itself. Nearly 4,000 people were detained on Sunday in 53 cities. In Moscow alone, the number stands at 1,400.
TikTokers has documented protests and other actions on the ground, such as how economic sanctions affect everyday Russians. Of course the blocking of TikTok means there are even fewer channels for them to speak to the world.
It should be noted that this is not the first time that Russians have used TikTok as a political battleground. A year ago, young people started using the app to make videos to support free speech and to oppose the government's treatment of anti-authoritarian, anti-Putin, anti-corruption politician and activist Alexei Navalny.
In response to TikTok's suspension, some TikTokers who have posted the information have complained about the ability to not reach new audiences and share their stories. Instead they will use Instagram and YouTube, and hope both platforms don't block Russian-language content.