The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, in cooperation with the Center for Countering Disinformation, has published information on five russian public figures in the “Kremlin Mouthpieces” section of the War & Sanctions portal.

Russian singers, poets, and entertainers — despite differences in profession — are united by their systematic efforts to support the putin regime and russian military forces in Ukraine, legitimize the occupation of Ukrainian territories, and justify russia’s aggression.

Among those identified are:

• ilya rakhmielovich reznik / ilya leopoldovich izraelson — a Soviet and russian poet, People’s Artist of russia, and author of the lyrics of the so-called “new anthem of Crimea” approved by the occupation authorities;
• leonid arkadyevich yakubovich — a Soviet and russian television host, People’s Artist of russia, and member of the United russia party, who uses his television programs as a platform to support russian military forces publicly;
• andrey borisovich rozhkov — a russian screenwriter and TV host, director of the Ural Pelmeni creative association, member of the putin Team movement, and a trusted representative of Vladimir putin during the 2018 presidential election, who actively participates in events supporting russian occupation forces.

As of today, the “Kremlin Mouthpieces” section of the War & Sanctions portal contains information on 166 individuals involved in russian propaganda, who justify aggression and war crimes committed by the russian federation, promote violence, disseminate Kremlin narratives, conduct targeted information operations, and attempt to influence public opinion in various regions of the world.

A significant number of these individuals continue to operate freely and travel within countries of the sanctions coalition, despite their direct involvement in supporting russia’s war of aggression.

The Defence Intelligence of Ukraine and the Center for Countering Disinformation call on the countries of the free world to take decisive action against the aggressor’s “propaganda troops”, including the imposition of personal sanctions, restrictions on public and financial activities, entry bans, and the complete cessation of any form of cooperation with those who serve russia’s war through words.