Russian state-funded network RT America will halt production and lay off most of its employees.
According to CNN, T&R Productions, the production company behind the news channel, told staff in a memo that it will be “ceasing production” at all its locations because of “unforeseen business interruption events.”
RT America was dealt a massive blow when DirecTV decided to drop the network from its lineup. The broadcast industry has been united in its efforts to disassociate itself from anything having to do with Russia.
This week, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) took the unprecedented step of publicly opposing Russian-sponsored programming. T&R Productions has employees in four major cities; New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC.
“Unfortunately, we anticipate this layoff will be permanent, meaning that this will result in the permanent separation from employment of most T&R employees at all locations,” Solodovnikov wrote.
Several employees from RT’s various networks have also publicly resigned from the outlet. Solodovnikov reportedly delivered the grim news to several hosts, correspondents, and producers who had gathered in an RT America’s lounge for a meeting.
Other RT America employees have resigned from the network amid Putin’s unprovoked attack.
“A lot of people were shocked,” the source told CNN. “A lot of people were crying.”
