MPs seek to end UK broadcast of Russian ‘soft power’ cartoon Masha and the Bear

A cross-party group of UK lawmakers has written to government ministers urging them to examine whether they can ban the broadcast of 'Masha and the Bear,' a Russian children's cartoon, citing propaganda concerns. The program, which follows a young girl and a retired circus bear, has been popular with UK preschoolers for years. But according to The Guardian, lawmakers now worry the show disguises Russian messaging beneath a wholesome exterior. The push reflects broader UK concerns about Russian soft power and cultural influence in recent years.

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