Zelensky sanctions Russian creators of "Masha and the Bear" children's series

Ukrainian President Zelensky signed a decree imposing sanctions on five Russian citizens and four companies linked to the creation and distribution of the animated series "Masha and the Bear." The official justification states the series "spreads pro-Russian narratives disguised as children's content and poses a threat to the national security of Ukraine." Sanctions target Animaccord Studio, its founder/CEO, screenwriter, director, producer, and related entities. The measures provide legal grounds for Ukraine to block broadcasts and appeal to platforms like YouTube and Netflix to restrict access.