Russian propaganda arm loses its banking privileges in Britain

BBC:
NatWest bank is to close the accounts of Russia's state-run broadcaster, RT.

Editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan tweeted: "They've closed our accounts in Britain. All our accounts. 'The decision is not subject to review.' Praise be to freedom of speech!"

The bank said the decision was "not taken lightly" and that the accounts were "still operative" at present.

An MP from Russia's ruling party has said its parliament will demand an explanation from the UK.

RT says the entire Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) Group, of which NatWest is part, is refusing to provide its services.

The broadcaster, previously known as Russia Today, says NatWest wrote to its London office saying: "We have recently undertaken a review of your banking arrangements with us and reached the conclusion that we will no longer provide these facilities."

The bank, RT said, had insisted its decision was final and it was "not prepared to enter into any discussion."

A letter posted online by the channel appears to show that the freeze is not in effect yet. It warns that banking facilities will be "cancelled and closed" on 12 December.
...
This looks like a shot across the bow that could see all of Russia excluded from the banking system.  That would have a severe impact on Russia's financial system and ability to engage in commerce.  It is a threat that some in the west have pushed as retaliation for Russian aggression.

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