In today's information space, statements by politicians and public figures are increasingly emerging that, under the guise of objectivity or balance, in fact conceal manipulation. Some—even from democratic countries—knowingly or unknowingly repeat Moscow's main propaganda techniques in their rhetoric, such as equating the sides of the conflict, distributing responsibility equally, and creating a false narrative about the circumstances of the war.
A notable example is a recent interview with British MP Zarah Sultana, who acknowledged Putin as a dictator and criminal but also criticized Zelensky and called for stopping support for Ukraine through NATO. Such statements are masked as pacifism but actually echo the messaging of Russian propaganda. The idea that "both sides are the same" is a classic instance of 'whataboutism' and false equivalence. These approaches blur the lines between aggressor and victim, creating the impression that there is no clear truth.
Moscow's propaganda has for decades used a strategy of distracting from its own crimes by steering discussions towards the flaws of its opponents. Comparing Putin’s regime—marked by more than 20 years in power, suppression of opposition, and aggression against a neighboring country—to Ukraine's democratically elected government is a typical manipulation based on the logical fallacy of false equivalence.
Similar rhetoric is used by politicians from Western countries, as well as by some international organizations and media outlets. For instance, American commentator Tucker Carlson's interview with Vladimir Putin saw little pushback on disinformation, essentially amplifying propaganda narratives. Similarly, U.S. official J.D. Vance’s calls to “understand both sides” equate the interests of the aggressor and the victim.
The aim of such statements is to make the international community doubt the clear picture of the conflict, easing responsibility from Moscow. This undermines support for Ukraine, justifies aggression, and complicates the mobilization of public opinion in defense of democratic values. It is vital to distinguish these tactics and rely on facts to maintain a clear line between truth and manipulation.
