

"Pleitgen is also no stranger to Russia, with regular stints reporting on political stories from CNN’s Moscow bureau, as well as numerous embeds with the Russian military, including to Deir Ezzor, Latakia and Aleppo, Syria," reads the release, referring to Syrian cities central to that country's civil war. "In more than 12 years with CNN he has reported on stories as diverse as the conflicts in Iraq and Georgia, elections in Iran and Myanmar, as well as major stories in the USA, UK and his native Germany."



Current Moscow senior correspondent Matthew Chance, who has been with CNN since 2001, 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 U.S. elections, or issues relating to Ukraine, Europe, China, Iran, and Syria.," said Deborah Rayner, senior vice president of international newsgathering, TV and digital, for CNN.

"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.”

“The fact that CNN is doubling down on its commitment to Russia was a big factor in me taking on this role," said Hodge.

"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.”