Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry Warns Media Over Russian Propaganda Tours

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has voiced strong opposition to the participation of several international media in a propaganda tour that took place with the involvement of Russian structures on the occupied territories of Ukraine. MFA spokesperson Georgiy Tykhiy stressed that such a trip violates both international law and Ukrainian legislation.

According to the diplomat, the initiator of the event was the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, and each participant crossed an uncontrolled stretch of the state border. The MFA warned about legal consequences, including a ban on entry into Ukraine.

“The media that participated will face serious reputational consequences and difficulties in their activities in Ukraine. We will officially address the headquarters of these outlets in their capitals with a demand for apologies and an end to such practices”

The ministry stressed that such actions undermine trust in independent media and create risks to the safety of journalists who cover the conflict and the occupation process.

The MFA stated its readiness to take further legal steps against those responsible for this propaganda initiative and emphasized responsible coverage of events in the region in accordance with international law.

It also emphasized the need to adhere to standards of objectivity and ethics when covering events from the conflict area, especially in the context of the occupied territories, where information campaigns by various actors can influence the safety of journalists and public opinion.

Principles of responsible reporting and consequences for the media

The MFA reminded that independent media have an obligation to adhere to accuracy, fact-checking, and neutrality in covering events in the region. Conversely, participation in propaganda projects that are funded or coordinated by an aggressor country can lead to serious reputational losses and legal consequences for such media organizations.