Faces of russian propaganda in the TOT: vladimir rogov
The CCD continues its series of reports on the key figures behind russian propaganda in the occupied territories of Ukraine. Today, we will focus on vladimir rogov, a pro-russian propagandist and representative of the occupation administration in Melitopol.
rogov’s propaganda efforts in support of russia began in 2007, when he joined a local pro-rrussian organization and eventually became its leader. He was also a member of pro-russian political parties that are now banned in Ukraine.
In 2014, rogov relocated to moscow, where he became a frequent guest on propaganda programs broadcast by russian state television. He presented himself as an “expert on the Ukrainian issue” and the head of the “committee for state building of novorossiya.” During this phase of his career, he gained notoriety for a fake claiming that Ukrainian schools teach children to kill bullfinches because their colors are “not patriotic,” while encouraging the protection and feeding of blue and yellow titmice.
In the early days of russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, rogov returned to Melitopol, where, according to law enforcement, he engaged in subversive activities, including scouting the locations of Ukrainian troops and recruiting local residents to collaborate with the russian occupiers. He was also appointed to a position in the occupation administration.
rogov actively promotes kremlin narratives through his social media platforms. His posts aim to discredit Ukraine as a state and undermine the Ukrainian military while glorifying the occupation forces and justifying russian aggression. He also frequently organizes fundraising efforts to provide first aid kits and equipment for russian troops.
In 2023, a Ukrainian court found rogov guilty of high treason and collaboration with the aggressor state, sentencing him to 15 years in prison. In 2024, the SBU announced new charges against him for crimes against national security, including encroachment on Ukraine’s territorial integrity and justification of russian armed aggression. Rogov has been under sanctions by Ukraine and the EU since 2022.
