Accounts linked to EU-sanctioned figures displayed monetisation tools after sanctions, report finds
EU Sanctioned Accounts Still Monetizing, Report Reveals
Accounts linked to EU sanctioned figures continue to access monetization tools even after being subjected to sanctions, according to a new report. A recent investigation by the Dutch tech accountability group WHAT TO FIX found that three individuals sanctioned by the EU for pro-Russian influence in Africa maintained revenue-generating features on major platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X. This discovery raises questions about the effectiveness of sanctions in limiting financial support for Russian-aligned activities, as these accounts remained active and capable of earning income despite regulatory actions.
Sanctions Targeted Pro-Russian Networks in Africa
The targeted individuals—Nathalie Yamb, Sylvain Afoua, and Justin Tagouh—were designated by the EU in 2025 for their roles in advancing Russian interests through political and media campaigns across the continent. Yamb, a Swiss-Cameroonian commentator with a substantial online following, was accused of promoting Russian narratives and maintaining ties to AFRIC, an organization associated with Russian private military entities. Afoua, operating under the alias Egountchi Behanzin, leads the Ligue de Défense Noire Africaine (LDNA), a group dissolved by French authorities in 2021. Tagouh founded Afrique Media, a Francophone network that collaborated with Russia Today in 2022, amplifying pro-Russian content and supporting Wagner Group initiatives.
Monetization Tools Remain Active Post-Sanctions
WHAT TO FIX’s analysis showed that 21 accounts tied to these sanctioned figures retained monetization capabilities on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X. The study examined whether platforms had disabled revenue tools such as ads, subscriptions, or creator funds after sanctions were imposed. While some accounts saw their monetization features removed, others remained accessible, indicating inconsistent enforcement of restrictions. For example, TikTok deactivated an account linked to Afoua following researcher alerts, and YouTube disabled a channel membership tool for the LDNA’s account, though other services like Facebook Stars were still visible.
"Sanctioned accounts can still generate income through multiple channels, including off-platform services and direct monetization features provided by social media platforms," noted Victoire Rio, executive director of WHAT TO FIX.
The report highlights that even with sanctions in place, creators had access to tools allowing them to earn from content engagement, potentially sustaining their pro-Russian messaging efforts. Researchers argue that platforms may not have fully synchronized their enforcement mechanisms, leaving loopholes for financial activity to continue unchecked.
Impact on Sanctions Effectiveness
The persistence of monetization tools could weaken the EU’s sanctions strategy, as sanctioned figures might still fund their operations through digital means. While the EU’s intent is to restrict financial resources, the findings suggest that platforms have not always blocked revenue streams for these accounts. This discrepancy could allow pro-Russian networks to persist in their influence campaigns, undeterred by economic penalties. The report underscores the need for stricter platform compliance to ensure sanctions fully disrupt the financial support of targeted individuals and groups.
Platform Compliance and Response
Researchers noted that YouTube, despite its robust compliance policies, allowed certain monetization tools to remain active for accounts linked to EU sanctions. In response to the report, YouTube stated, “Google is committed to sanctions compliance and enforces policies under our Terms of Service. If an account violates guidelines, we take prompt action.” However, the study highlights that while specific accounts may be blocked, broader monetization features persist, enabling creators to continue earning from their content. This inconsistency in enforcement has prompted calls for greater transparency and accountability from social media platforms in supporting EU sanctions objectives.
"Monetization features are not just tools for creators—they are lifelines for sustaining pro-Russian influence," said a researcher from WHAT TO FIX.
The report’s findings emphasize the importance of monitoring both on-platform and off-platform revenue sources for sanctioned figures. While some platforms have taken steps to remove monetization access, the availability of these tools in the background means that financial activity can continue discreetly. This has implications for the EU’s ability to fully contain Russian influence through sanctions, as the digital economy may provide an alternative pathway for funding operations in Africa and beyond.