Russian propaganda has been relentless in its efforts to discredit Ukraine. The story of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s extraordinary wealth was among the Kremlin’s many attacks against Ukraine’s reputation.
The rumor about Zelensky spending American aid money to buy two luxury yachts started through an obscure YouTube channel. The yacht broker debunked it, confirming that the allegations were fake. However, the rumor was later repeated on DC Weekly and further amplified by the Kremlin-backed media. Later on Moscow followed it up with similar rumors about Volodymyr Zelensky and his family members spending extraordinary amounts of money, allegedly stolen from Western aid. Although these rumors can easily be proven wrong with further investigation, they can sometimes influence public opinion and stagger further support.
The Kremlin is using these “rumor campaigns” systematically as a part of its hybrid warfare strategy, which is why it is so important to be aware of such tools and to spare effort to check the sources of the information.
How you can help Ukraine against Russian aggression:
Come back alive – https://bit.ly/3Ct6O2L (works directly with the command and personnel of military units, purchasing infrared thermal imaging cameras, night vision goggles, hemostatics etc);
UNITED 24 – https://bit.ly/3M2mXiT (launched by the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the main venue for collecting charitable donations in support of Ukraine. Funds will be transferred to the official accounts of the National Bank of Ukraine and allocated by assigned ministries to cover the most pressing needs)
Army SOS – https://bit.ly/3UYK168 (manages purchases of necessary ammunition, shields, intercommunication and reconnaissance facilities, etc. and delivers all goods directly);
Vostok SOS – https://bit.ly/3Ruut75 (raising funds for various needs of the army).