Russia Bans Two French Lawmakers and Two Journalists in Retaliation Move

Russia has barred two French lawmakers and two French journalists from entering the country, in a move Al Jazeera reported on November 11, 2026. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced the four entry bans, which prevent the named individuals from travelling into Russia.

The lawmakers are Sacha Houlie and Arthur Delaporte. The journalists are Paul Gogo and Ariane Chemin.

Russia said the bans were retaliation for France's expulsion of Xenia Fedorova earlier in 2026. Russia cited alleged harassment of Fedorova as the grounds for the bans. Fedorova headed RT France from 2017 to 2023, and France expelled her in July 2026.

French officials have described her in strong terms. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot described Fedorova as an agent of influence. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez accused her of relaying Russian propaganda to attack France's fundamental interests.