The Russian Foreign Ministry said it has closed the CBC / Radio-Canada office in Moscow and revoked the accreditations and visas of its journalists.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday that this step comes in response to Ottawa's ban on the Kremlin-backed RT channel, formerly known as Russia Today, and RT France from broadcasting in Canada.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Russia's move is unacceptable, and Canada will continue to defend press freedom.

"It is clear that the truth, journalism, and sharing what is really happening with citizens, is a deep threat to Vladimir Putin and his illegal war and authoritarian tendencies... It is unfortunate, but not surprising, that he tries to shut down strong journalistic institutions."

CBC News Editor-in-Chief Brodie Fenlon said CBC / Radio-Canada is deeply disappointed to learn of the news.

He tweeted on Twitter, "Our journalism is completely independent from the Canadian government and we are saddened to see the Russian government confuse the two."

Fenlon pointed out that the broadcaster, the only Canadian news organization with a permanent presence in the country, has maintained an office in Moscow for 44 years.

He said this is the first time one of its offices has been closed. "This seems to be another step by Russia to choke free and independent journalism within its borders."

In March, CBC / Radio-Canada said it temporarily suspended coverage in Russia due to new legislation in the country that "appears to criminalize independent reporting on the current situation in Ukraine and Russia."

In April, Russia expanded the list of Canadians subject to sanctions, adding 61 more people including several journalists such as Global News international correspondent Mark MacKinnon, National Post writer John Ivison, in addition to the editor-in-chief of The Globe and Mail and the President and CEO of CBC.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said action is needed to combat lies and misinformation by Russia about the invasion of Ukraine, including on social media. Many other countries and the entire European Union have also banned RT broadcasting.