Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on a group of anti-Ukrainian propagandists, notably including Yulia Latynina. Vitaly Portnikov points out that such figures are active on social media, and their views align closely with Russian government positions. He emphasizes that even expressions of sympathy for Ukraine may have been part of a carefully planned campaign aimed at undermining trust in Ukraine.
Portnikov asserts the necessity of sanctions against propagandists working to destabilize Ukrainian society through international platforms like YouTube and Telegram. He reminds that Ukraine has already removed Russian TV channels and social networks from its information space and believes similar measures should apply to other avenues of influence.
Separately, Portnikov raises the issue of responding to Ukrainian citizens who collaborate with Russian structures against their own country. He suggests that such actions should not only be subject to sanctions but also investigated as criminal or administrative offenses.
Portnikov notes that Russians can act openly, while Ukrainians who choose to work with the aggressor are committing direct betrayal of national interests. The article also addresses misinformation spread by figures like Balashov, whose history as an agitator is well documented.
Portnikov concludes by urging vigilance regarding information security, encouraging support for Ukrainian media resources, and promoting resilience against propaganda.
