ABC Barred After Interview With Rebel

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said it would not renew permission for the ABC television network to operate in the country because it broadcast an interview with notorious Chechen rebel leader Shamil Basayev. The ministry said the broadcast supported “the propaganda of terrorism.”

ABC News President David Westin said, “No civilized people can condone the murder of innocent civilians.” But he added: “The mission of a free press is to cover news events -- even those involving illegal acts -- to help our audience better understand the important issues that confront us all.”