Russian authorities are launching an investigation into two Italian journalists who visited the Russian region of Kursk, where Ukraine is conducting a ground offensive. The journalists are accused of illegally entering Russian territory.
The security service FSB, which is responsible for the investigation, adds that the journalists "carried out video recordings" in the city of Sudzha, reports the state-owned Russian news agency Ria.
Russia summoned the Italian ambassador on Friday to lodge a protest against the TV team from the Italian public service broadcaster Rai reporting from Kursk.
The Italian ambassador pointed out that the TV company's editorial offices plan their work in an independent and free manner, according to Italy's Foreign Ministry.
In the TV segment, the reporters are seen traveling in an armored vehicle past Russian road signs and into Sudzha, where they interview locals. Rai reports that the reporters have now returned to Italy to ensure their safety.
