The Association of Ukrainians in Portugal has shared concerns about Russian propaganda in NATO countries. On Sunday, the association urged NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to address this issue during his visit to Lisbon. The visit is part of Rutte’s regular meetings with NATO member states.
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Ukrainians In Portugal Warn NATO
President of the Association of Ukrainians in Portugal Pavlo Sadokha said Russian disinformation is a serious threat. He noted that the European Union has taken steps to protect information security but these efforts are not enough.
He said:
Every day we see commentators on news channels who, under the guise of ‘independent experts’, relay Russian propaganda word for word, as it is presented by propaganda channels in Russia,
NATO Role In Countering Russian Propaganda
Russian propaganda has been a concern for Western countries especially since the war in Ukraine began. The Association of Ukrainians in Portugal believes NATO must act to counter this problem.
NATO can help protect its members by addressing disinformation and stopping the spread of false narratives that harm the Alliance.
Mark Rutte will visit Portugal on Monday. He will meet with President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, Foreign Affairs Minister Paulo Rangel and National Defence Minister Nuno Melo.
These meetings are an opportunity for Portugal to show its support for NATO goals and for Rutte to respond to the Ukrainian community’s concerns.
Ukrainian Diaspora’s Perspective
The association highlighted the large number of Ukrainians living in NATO countries. Around 20 million Ukrainians live in these countries having moved there over the past two centuries. The association said Ukrainians see NATO’s presence on Russia’s borders as a way to protect them not as aggression against Russia.
Sadokha said:
We ask that when making future decisions on supporting Ukraine in its heroic struggle against Russian aggression […] you also take into account the position of the multi-million-strong Ukrainian diaspora, which is an integral part of the societies of the NATO member countries
The support of the Ukrainian diaspora for NATO actions shows the importance of unity. Many Ukrainians think that NATO is essential to make sure Ukraine’s security and stop Russia’s aggression.
The Human Cost Of War
Sadokha also spoke about the war impact on Ukrainians. He said:
This war has already cost too many Ukrainian lives. Both inside and outside Ukraine, Ukrainians have suffered a huge trauma that has changed their lives and will have negative consequences for generations to come
The war has caused immense suffering. Many Ukrainians have lost their homes and many lives have been lost. The war creates a strong need to support Ukraine and help it recover for those living abroad.
The Challenge Of Disinformation
Russian disinformation campaigns target both local and international audiences. These campaigns aim to weaken trust in democratic institutions, create divisions among allies, and shift blame for the war. Russian propaganda also tries to undermine NATO’s unity and resolve.
The Association of Ukrainians in Portugal says fighting these campaigns needs a joint effort from NATO and its members. This includes exposing false stories and supporting independent media
Sadokha warned:
Every day, Ukrainians see how Russian propaganda twists the truth and manipulates opinions. This disinformation affects not just Ukraine but also the stability of the Alliance
The association suggests several actions to fight Russian propaganda. These include more funding for programs that expose disinformation, stronger cooperation between NATO and the EU and support for local efforts to promote factual reporting. These steps can help NATO protect its members from the harm caused by propaganda.
The association also urges NATO to include Ukrainian voices in discussions. Sadokha said:
The Ukrainian diaspora has experience with Russian aggression and disinformation. Their insights can help shape effective responses
Mark Rutte Visit
Mark Rutte visit to Portugal comes at a key time for NATO. Tensions in Eastern Europe are high and the Alliance faces pressure to support Ukraine while staying united. Rutte’s talks with Portuguese leaders will likely focus on these challenges and other NATO issues.
Portugal is a NATO member and it has shown its support for Ukraine and NATO’s principles. The country has backed EU efforts to fight disinformation and help Ukraine. Rutte visit is a chance to strengthen ties and reaffirm NATO’s shared goals.
The Association of Ukrainians in Portugal appeal shows the need to fight Russian propaganda and stay united. NATO can better protect its members and support Ukraine in its fight against aggression by tackling these concerns.
Ukrainians in Portugal remind us of the war’s human cost and the need to work together. Their call for action highlights the importance of standing against disinformation and ensuring peace for future generations.
