French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed concern and frustration over the planned return of Xenia Fedorova, a Russian pro-Kremlin commentator expelled from France in July, to the media group Bolloré’s channel CNews. Fedorova, who was sanctioned by the European Union, has been labeled by the government as an “agent of influence in the service of Russia” and an “agent of subversion.” Barrot noted that she was expelled after being identified as a propagandist for the Kremlin, involved in spreading disinformation aimed at undermining public order in France. In addition to her expulsion, the government imposed a six-month freeze on her assets. Fedorova, 45, had previously appeared on CNews before her expulsion and continues to write for the weekly publication JDNews. On Wednesday, CNews presenter Gauthier Le Bret announced that Fedorova would be allowed to participate remotely via video, as the French government has blocked her from entering the country. Her increasing presence on Bolloré’s media platforms has raised concerns about the potential manipulation of public discourse, especially as the 2027 presidential election campaign approaches. Barrot criticized Bolloré for giving airtime to someone whom he said “all the political forces of this country consider we were right to expel,” citing the evidence against her. He emphasized that while editorial freedom is a fundamental principle, media companies should be held responsible for the content they choose to broadcast. Barrot questioned why Bolloré would provide media resources to someone who is known to work in the interest of Russia against France and the European Union. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between media independence and national security concerns. While France upholds the right of media outlets to operate freely, the government is urging them to consider the broader implications of their content choices, especially when it comes to individuals with ties to foreign powers. This case has reignited discussions about the role of media in shaping public opinion and the potential risks of amplifying voices that may threaten democratic values.