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Ukrainian Embassy Condemns Russian Propaganda Film Screening in Brussels
The Embassy of Ukraine in Belgium has issued a strong condemnation of the planned screening of “Carnet de Russie,” a documentary film that Ukrainian officials describe as Russian propaganda designed to justify Moscow’s aggression against Ukraine. The screening and accompanying public conference, organized by Kairos Presse, is scheduled for January 31, 2026, in Brussels.
In a statement published on Facebook, Ukrainian diplomats characterized the film as deliberate propaganda material that “serves the information interests of the Russian Federation in the context of its military aggression against Ukraine.” The embassy claims the documentary systematically distorts reality, diminishes responsibility for war crimes, and blurs distinctions between victim and aggressor in the ongoing conflict.
“Such narratives are an integral part of Russia’s information war and are used to manipulate public opinion and weaken democratic societies,” the embassy stated, emphasizing the broader concerns about Russian disinformation campaigns targeting European audiences.
Ukrainian officials have taken a firm position regarding the screening, declaring they will consider any support for the event as direct contribution to Russia’s information warfare efforts against Ukraine. The embassy has explicitly called for the cancellation of both the screening and all related public events, urging Belgian authorities to take “decisive measures” to prevent what they view as the legitimization of Russian propaganda in public spaces.
The controversy highlights growing tensions surrounding Russian cultural presence in Europe amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ukrainian Ambassador to Belgium Yaroslav Melnyk emphasized the importance of maintaining vigilance regarding Russian cultural events across Europe, noting that Russian culture has come under increased scrutiny due to widespread support for Vladimir Putin’s regime within Russian cultural institutions.
This incident is not isolated. Similar interventions by Ukrainian diplomatic representatives have resulted in canceled performances by Russian artists elsewhere in Europe. In Mannheim, Germany, a concert by Russian violinist Vadim Repin was recently canceled following communication between the Ukrainian ambassador to Germany and local officials. Similarly, performances by Russian ballet dancer Svetlana Zakharova and her husband Vadim Repin were canceled at the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino theatre in Florence, Italy.
These cancellations reflect a broader European debate about the appropriate response to Russian cultural exports during a time of war. Critics argue that allowing such events provides platforms for soft power influence, while others raise concerns about cultural censorship and the importance of distinguishing between individual Russian artists and state propaganda.
The statement from the Ukrainian embassy acknowledged Belgium’s support for Ukraine throughout the conflict, framing their request as part of a shared commitment to defending democratic values against disinformation. “Ukraine deeply appreciates the support of Belgium, the city of Brussels, and the Belgian people,” the diplomats noted.
The controversy comes at a time when European nations are increasingly scrutinizing Russian information operations on the continent. Security experts have warned about Russia’s sophisticated use of cultural diplomacy, media platforms, and public events to shape narratives around the Ukraine conflict and influence Western public opinion.
As of publication, Belgian authorities and the event organizers have not publicly responded to the Ukrainian embassy’s request to cancel the screening. The incident underscores the complex intersection of free speech, cultural exchange, and security concerns that European nations continue to navigate as the Russia-Ukraine conflict extends into its information dimensions.
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12 Comments
While I generally believe in the free exchange of ideas, in this case the Ukrainian Embassy’s condemnation of the planned screening seems justified. Allowing the dissemination of Russian propaganda that distorts the truth about the invasion of Ukraine is deeply concerning and undermines efforts to maintain an informed public.
As someone who follows developments in the mining and commodities sectors, I’m troubled by the embassy’s condemnation of this Russian propaganda film. While I respect their position, I think it’s important to maintain open dialogue and not simply dismiss alternative narratives, even if we disagree with them.
I understand your perspective, but in this case the Ukrainian Embassy’s concerns seem well-founded. Screening a film that distorts the realities of the conflict and diminishes Russia’s responsibility for war crimes is not a matter of healthy debate, but of combating disinformation.
I appreciate your desire for open dialogue, but in this context, allowing the screening of this film would be akin to providing a platform for Russian propaganda. The embassy is right to take a firm stance against such attempts to manipulate public opinion about the war in Ukraine.
As someone invested in geopolitics and energy markets, I’m troubled by this screening. Allowing the dissemination of Russian propaganda undermines efforts to maintain an informed, balanced public discourse about the Ukraine conflict and its implications. The embassy’s condemnation is justified.
I agree. Screening this film would only serve to sow further confusion and division. It’s crucial that European audiences have access to factual, impartial information from reliable sources, not Kremlin-backed distortions of reality.
The Ukrainian Embassy is right to take a strong stance against this screening. Allowing Russian propaganda films to be shown in Brussels is deeply concerning and runs the risk of manipulating public opinion. We must be vigilant against such attempts to blur the lines between aggressor and victim.
This screening appears to be a concerning case of Russian propaganda aimed at misleading the public about the Ukraine conflict. The Ukrainian Embassy is right to strongly condemn this event – we must be vigilant against disinformation campaigns that whitewash Russia’s aggression.
I agree, it’s critical that European audiences have access to factual, unbiased information about the realities of the war in Ukraine. Screening Russian propaganda films is counterproductive and undermines democratic values.
While I understand the desire for open discourse, this film seems to be blatant Russian propaganda designed to distort the truth about the invasion of Ukraine. The Ukrainian Embassy is justified in their condemnation – we must be wary of such narratives that blur the lines between victim and aggressor.
Absolutely. Screening this film would only serve to amplify Russia’s disinformation efforts and undermine public understanding of this complex and tragic conflict. The embassy is right to take a firm stand against it.
It’s concerning to see Russian propaganda being given a platform in Brussels. The Ukrainian Embassy raises valid concerns about how this film systematically distorts reality and diminishes responsibility for war crimes. We must be vigilant against such attempts to manipulate public opinion.