Reuters Sparks Censorship Debate by Removing Sensitive Xi-Putin Video Footage

China Didn't Want You to See This Video of Xi and Putin. So Reuters Deleted It In a move that has sparked debate over censorship and transparency, news agency Reuters removed footage of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussing organ transplantation as a means of life extension from its website, wire service, and social media feeds. The video, which was captured on September 3 during the Victory Day Parade in Beijing, showed the two leaders engaged in a bizarre conversation about living forever. Reuters initially reported on and aired the footage, but two days later, it received a takedown letter from China Central Television (CCTV), China's state-controlled television network, which had licensed the footage to Reuters. According to the letter, CCTV lawyer HE Danning claimed that the video was "misrepresented" and demanded its removal. Reuters complied with the request, sparking criticism from media watchdogs and experts who argue that the move undermines press freedom and transparency. "This is a classic case of censorship," said Steven Butler, Asia-Pacific coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). "Reuters should have stood by their reporting and refused to cave in to China's demands." The Victory Day Parade was a significant event marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The parade featured military hardware, cultural performances, and high-profile guests, including Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin. Background research reveals that organ transplantation has been a topic of interest for both Chinese and Russian leaders in recent years. In 2019, China's National Health Commission announced plans to establish a national organ transplant system, while Russia has been accused of using forced labor to harvest organs from prisoners. The removal of the video raises questions about the role of media in reporting on sensitive topics and the implications for press freedom. "This incident highlights the challenges faced by journalists in covering China's opaque politics," said Emily Rauhala, a journalist who covers China for The Washington Post. As the debate continues, Reuters has yet to comment on its decision to remove the video. However, experts warn that this move sets a concerning precedent for media outlets and undermines transparency in reporting. Current Status: Reuters removed the video from its website, wire service, and social media feeds. CCTV issued a takedown letter claiming the video was "misrepresented." Media watchdogs and experts have criticized Reuters' decision to comply with China's demands. The incident has sparked debate over censorship and transparency in reporting. Next Developments: Reuters is expected to provide further explanation for its decision to remove the video. CCTV may face scrutiny from international media organizations and human rights groups. The incident will likely fuel ongoing discussions about press freedom, censorship, and transparency in reporting. *Reporting by Theintercept.*