The Center continues to monitor the information environment in the Global South and identify narratives favorable to russia.

▫️ Media in the region widely covered russian dictator vladimir putin’s statement that allowing Ukraine to launch long-range missiles at russian territory would mean NATO’s “direct participation” in the war. Some publications in India, Thailand, and other countries spread this news in a light that favors russian interests, amplifying the narrative of the “threat of a third world war” or nuclear escalation.

▫️ However, one Thai publication pointed out that putin has previously made nuclear threats, which Western partners have ignored without any significant consequences.

▫️ Some Indian media outlets have published articles explaining why Ukraine needs long-range missiles.

▫️ Indian journalists also covered several important events in Ukraine, including the exchange of prisoners, the shelling of Kharkiv that injured more than 40 people, the situation in the Pokrovsk direction, and the announcement of a new US military aid package for Ukraine.

▫️ The issue of Indian citizens’ involvement in the war on russia’s side remains a significant topic. The media spread news about the dismissal of 45 Indian citizens from the russian army, who were deceived into fighting in Ukraine.