Did Zelensky's Parents Hide $11 Million? How Russian Propaganda Hijacks Western News Brands
Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A story circulating online claims Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's parents are under investigation by Ukraine's anti-corruption bureau.
- The claim cites Euronews as a source, but this is false.
- This narrative is identified as typical Russian propaganda, part of a long-standing disinformation campaign against Ukraine.
Online claims suggest that the parents of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are under investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). The story attributes this supposed investigation to a single phone call from Zelensky's chief of staff.
However, the narrative falsely cites Euronews as its source. This misrepresentation is characteristic of Russian propaganda efforts. For the past four years, fake news networks have consistently employed similar tactics to spread disinformation concerning Ukraine and its president.
This particular disinformation campaign targets the credibility of Ukrainian leadership. By fabricating investigations and misattributing sources, these networks aim to sow doubt and confusion among international audiences. The tactic of using a reputable news outlet's name falsely is a common method to lend credibility to fabricated stories.
Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.