Russian propaganda spreads new lies about 'atrocities' by Ukrainian forces
Kostiantynivka after attack (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Russian propaganda is spreading false claims that Ukrainian forces are allegedly “mining” residential buildings in Kostiantynivka, Donetsk region, according to the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD).
The disinformation suggests that Ukrainian troops are planting mines in high-rise buildings in Kostiantynivka and preventing residents from leaving the city.
“This is a typical example of an information operation aimed at discrediting the Defense Forces of Ukraine and intimidating the civilian population,” the CCD stated.
The center emphasizes that the Russian side provides no evidence, offering no photos or video confirmation, and relies solely on the words of a Russian military expert.
Analysts at the center stress that Ukraine acts in accordance with international humanitarian law, while Russia systematically targets civilian infrastructure.
“By spreading such falsehoods, propagandists aim to justify their own numerous crimes and shift the blame onto Ukraine,” the CCD statement reads.
Russian propaganda themes in November
Earlier, RBC-Ukraine, citing the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD), reported on the main topics of Russian propaganda in November.
These included campaigns about alleged atrocities by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in frontline areas.
CCD analysts predicted that propaganda outlets would produce large-scale disinformation on terrorism by Ukrainian forces, torture of civilians, executions of citizens, and blocking detachments, which would be actively circulated on social media, messaging apps, and through controlled media.
The main goal of the campaign is to undermine local trust in the Ukrainian army and authorities, create division and fear in frontline communities, and use this information in international media to weaken support for Ukraine worldwide.
Other topics of Russian propaganda are expected to include:
- EU and US sanctions;
- Escalation of nuclear threats;
- Disruption of negotiations between Russia and the US;
- Discrediting the Coalition of the Willing;
- Manipulation around Ukraine’s 2026 state budget;
- Disinformation regarding the heating season;
- An information campaign about the sale of Gripen fighter jets.
