The Radio and Television Commission of Lithuania (RTCL) has adopted a decision in an administrative offence case, finding that an individual (D. B.) violated European Union restrictive measures (sanctions) by distributing television programmes online that are prohibited from being broadcast within the EU. A fine of €3,100 was imposed for this violation.

Distribution of Television Channels Subject to EU Sanctions

During monitoring activities, the RTCL established that the website iptvtelevizija.site123.me provided access to more than 1,040 television programmes. Among them were Russian channels such as Pervyi Kanal, Rossiya 1, Rossiya 24, NTV, and Mir, whose broadcasting has been suspended in the European Union and Lithuania under relevant Council of the European Union regulations.

The Chairman of the Commission, PhD. Mantas Martišius, who signed the decision, подчеркнул that compliance with EU restrictive measures is an essential responsibility of a democratic state.

The Commission concluded that distributing television programmes subject to EU sanctions constitutes non-compliance with international restrictive measures.

EU Law Prohibits Such Distribution

Under Council regulations, it is prohibited to broadcast, enable the broadcasting of, or otherwise contribute to content provided by entities included in the EU sanctions list. These measures aim to prevent the spread of disinformation and propaganda directed against the European Union and its Member States.

Under the Law on International Sanctions of the Republic of Lithuania, the RTCL is the competent authority responsible for ensuring the implementation of international sanctions in Lithuania when they relate to the broadcasting, retransmission, or online distribution of radio and television programmes.

Failure to Respond to the Commission’s Requests

The RTCL contacted D. B. requesting explanations regarding the violation and invited him to participate in the preparation of the administrative offence report. However, the individual did not respond and did not attend the meeting. As a result, the case was examined in his absence.

Previous Similar Case

On 19 June 2025, the RTCL identified a similar case in which a natural person illegally distributed prohibited Russian television channels via the website shop.tvdosug.tv. Following an investigation and cooperation from the individual, who admitted the violation, a lower fine of €500 was imposed.

Decision: Fine for Non-Compliance with International Sanctions

After assessing the collected evidence, the Commission determined that D. B.’s actions constituted a violation under Article 515(1) of the Code of Administrative Offences, concerning non-compliance with international sanctions.

In accordance with this provision, the Commission imposed a fine of €3,100, corresponding to the average penalty foreseen under the article.

The RTCL will continue to monitor online platforms to ensure compliance with international sanctions in Lithuania and to prevent the retransmission or distribution of prohibited content.