In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, journalists in Kyiv are battling against Russian disinformation, considering it a weapon as destructive as physical warfare. The spread of disinformation is seen as a precursor to more aggressive actions by Russia, prompting caution in countries like BiH.
Following the Euromaidan protests in 2014, where Russia labeled them as a coup d’etat, Ukrainian journalists began scrutinizing Russian media with new perspective. Disinformation, as explained by StopFake director Ruslan Deynychenko, is not just about falsehoods but an opportunity to uncover unexpected truths.
Detailed investigations into disinformation can offer insights into future events, such as how Russian media falsely reported on Ukrainian refugees during the Crimea crisis in 2014. The scrutiny revealed the lack of truth in their claims, highlighting the power of fact-checking amid media manipulation.
Russian media, particularly outlets like RT, have a history of promoting false narratives, especially regarding conflicts in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These narratives often accuse NATO of instigating conflicts and portray Russia as a beacon of peace and stability.
Despite the challenges posed by Russian disinformation, journalists and fact-checkers continue to combat the spread of false narratives, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in the face of such information warfare.