DISINFO: West is anti-Russian; Russophobia is like anti-Semitism
SUMMARY
The West has formed a stable anti-Russian attitude. Russophobia is like a new form of anti-Semitism.
RESPONSE
This is a recurring disinformation narrative from the pro-Kremlin outlets, accusing the West of Russophobia.
In reality, the West aims to establish equal and good-neighbourly relations with Russia. However, Moscow itself violated international law by launching aggression against Kyiv in 2014, when it occupied and illegally annexed the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea. International sanctions were imposed on Russia in the wake of these events.
Numerous violations of human rights, the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and Moscow’s overall aggressive policy have led to a tougher and better-balanced policy towards Russia. The European Union’s policy towards Russia is based on The five guiding principles. In June 2021 the motto: push back, constrain, engage - has been coined to explain the aim of moving towards a more constructive engagement and political commitment by the Russian leadership.
As for anti-Semitism, it is a prejudice against Jews and their discrimination, whereas the West’s criticism of Russian policies is based on Moscow’s unwillingness to respect internationally recognised rules and has nothing to do with the alleged Russophobia.
See more disinformation narratives about the West’s alleged anti-Russian activities and its refusal of Sputnik V for political reasons.