As Russia grows as a global news focal point - no less because of the "Russia collusion" investigations in the United States - CNN International (DStv 401) is strengthening its Moscow bureau with the appointment of Nathan Hodge as CNN Moscow bureau chief and moving international correspondent Fred Pleitgen there as well.
Nathan Hodge is joining Turner Broadcasting's CNN International from The Wall Street Journal as CNN Moscow bureau chief.
Nathan Hodge has been The Wall Street Journal's bureau chief in Moscow from 2015 until now.
The CNN senior international correspondent Fred Pleitgen is also relocating to Moscow from CNN's Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) headquarters in London.
The CNN senior international correspondent Matthew Chance, who has covered several Russia stories for CNN International for over a decade will remain in Moscow.
“It’s hard to overstate the importance of Russia internationally, whether that pertains to its own upcoming elections, its alleged role in the recent US elections, or issues relating to Ukraine, Europe, China, Iran, and Syria,” says Deborah Rayner, CNN's senior vice president of international newsgathering, TV and digital in a statement.
“Vladimir Putin is a uniquely compelling figure, and his agenda at home and abroad is fascinating for audiences worldwide. No-one is better placed to tell those stories than Matthew and Fred, and we could not wish for a better person to head up our Moscow operation than Nathan.”
Nathan Hodge says “The fact that CNN is doubling down on its commitment to Russia was a big factor in me taking on this role.”
“I know Fred personally from working alongside him in Syria, and I have followed Matthew’s career for a long time; both are exceptional journalists, and the whole team at the Moscow bureau is formidable.”
“This is a crucial year for Russia, and the passion I have seen for the story at CNN makes me very excited about what’s ahead.”
