The amendments, passed shortly before by MEPs, also include penalties for "calls to impose sanctions on Russia", which faces harsh Western retaliatory measures.
The penalties, which can go up to 15 years in prison, will be applied against those who disseminate "false information" resulting in "serious consequences" for the Russian armed forces.
These texts apply to the general population, and not only to information professionals.
They aim to strengthen the repressive arsenal of the authorities who are tightening their control of information in the midst of an offensive on Ukraine, blocking Facebook and independent media.
Regarding the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian authorities have banned the media from using information other than official statements on this subject.
They banned the use of words like "war" and "invasion".
© 2022 AFP