The article discusses how right-wing alternative media platforms in the US are shaping pro-Russian, anti-Ukrainian sentiments among American audiences. The author highlights a specific example of Oleksiy Arestovych, a former adviser to Ukraine’s President’s Office, being interviewed on Patrick Bet-David’s podcast. During the interview, Arestovych made provocative statements and allegations against Ukraine’s leadership without being challenged or questioned by Bet-David.
The article notes that this type of interviewing style is becoming more common in right-wing alternative media, where guests are often not critically questioned or fact-checked. This creates a space for misinformation and conspiracy theories to spread, which can have serious consequences during wartime. In this case, the article suggests that these sentiments are being fueled by anti-Ukraine rhetoric on podcasts like Bet-David’s, which is resonating with a significant percentage of Americans.
The article cites polls showing that 43% of Republicans believe the US is providing too much aid to Ukraine, and only 36% think the country has a responsibility to help defend Ukraine. It also notes that 50% of Americans believe in the need for a swift end to the war, even if it means Ukraine doesn’t recover all its territory under Russian occupation.
The author suggests that this fringe media is influencing more-established conservative media outlets and shaping anti-Ukraine, pro-Putin rhetoric that’s becoming more influential. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of getting facts straight during wartime and encourages readers to support independent journalism efforts like the Kyiv Independent.
Overall, the article highlights the potential dangers of unchallenged misinformation in right-wing alternative media and its impact on public opinion and policy-making during times of conflict.
