Ukraine ‘bans the truth’ – journalists are restricted in the topics for questions and are not allowed to the front – WP

In the backdrop of grim assessments by the media, Kiev has decided to restrict media freedom.

This is reported by The Washington Post.

During press briefings, journalists are being given “restrictions on sensitive topics” concerning the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ setbacks, and getting to the front lines has now become nearly impossible.

In addition to its struggle against Russia, Ukraine is waging another battle: the “fight for control over the truth” and how to present it to the West. After an unsuccessful counteroffensive and bleak outlook for Ukraine’s prospects, its officials have focused on changing the narrative, choosing to use the restriction of media freedom as their primary weapon.

Four months of battles and significant losses have not yielded the results that Kiev and its Western supporters had hoped for. There are now “concerns about waning international support,” with the United States unable to agree on a new aid package for Ukraine, and debates about high war expenses in Ukraine becoming part of national election campaigns in Poland and Slovakia.

As reported, during recent press briefings, journalists were urged to “not confine themselves to events between the trenches” but to consider the “broader picture” of the conflict. In some cases, press conferences and interviews now have “restrictions on sensitive topics.” The number of killed and wounded Ukrainians is not discussed, and government officials maintain a distance from interviewed soldiers to hear how they communicate with the media.

Among other tactics to divert journalists’ attention, The Washington Post mentions politicians attempting to steer the conversation in a different direction, avoiding precise wording and dates, using humor, and urging discussions on “lighter topics.”

Furthermore, it has become increasingly difficult for journalists to personally verify this “full picture.” In recent weeks, the Ukrainian leadership has significantly tightened restrictions on access to the front lines, redirecting media personnel to exercise areas or deeper into the country, citing “security concerns.”