Category Fact checks / debunkings

The Top Myths about US Aid to Ukraine

The Top Myths about US Aid to Ukraine

As Congress debates additional support for Ukraine, the anti-Ukraine echo chamber will peddle myths and half-truths, including these four:
Myth: Washington is writing Kyiv “blank checks” that Americans cannot afford.
Myth: There is not enough oversight of US aid to Ukraine.
Myth: America is exponentially the largest donor to Ukraine.
Myth: Russia is a distraction. The US must focus on China.

Read MoreThe Top Myths about US Aid to Ukraine

Fact check: No evidence drone attack launched from Estonia or Latvia

A post shared on Facebook claims that a drone attack on a Russian airbase was launched from Estonia or Latvia.

Verdict: Misleading
There is no evidence that the attack was launched from Estonia or Latvia. Both countries denied the claim.

Read MoreFact check: No evidence drone attack launched from Estonia or Latvia

Russia’s Wagner mercenaries landing in Niger? No, ‘breaking news’ video shot in 2006 – Africa Check

Niger's coup leaders did reportedly ask Russia's Wagner mercenaries help them hold on to power. But a video circulating online with the claim it shows a planeload of Wagner soldiers landing in Niger in 2023 is 17 years old.

Read MoreRussia’s Wagner mercenaries landing in Niger? No, ‘breaking news’ video shot in 2006 – Africa Check

Was Russia ready to sign a peace treaty with Ukraine in 2022?

Putin's claims that a treaty was ready and acceptable for Ukraine in the spring of 2022 but was rejected by Ukraine are highly unlikely. The documents displayed at the June 17 meeting are likely to have been working drafts. The positions of the parties were too far apart, and Russia was not likely to abide by a ceasefire. A treaty would have to be signed by the presidents, and subject to a referendum in Ukraine.

Read MoreWas Russia ready to sign a peace treaty with Ukraine in 2022?

Photo from Ukraine falsely shared as aftermath of Myanmar clash

As anti-junta forces reportedly captured a strategic military base in southern Myanmar, a photo surfaced in Burmese posts that falsely claimed it showed a foreign woman helping rebels loot pagodas in the battlefield. The picture was actually taken in a Ukrainian town damaged by heavy Russian attacks.

Read MorePhoto from Ukraine falsely shared as aftermath of Myanmar clash

‘Died Suddenly’ Producer Promotes Fake CNN Post Containing Fake Zelenskyy Quote

According to the supposed CNN post, Zelenskyy had said, "We will become a new diverse and multicultural nation that will be the model state for the rest of Europe."

However, as BBC Verify journalist Shayan Sardarizadeh pointed out that same day, not only had CNN never posted this, but there was also no evidence that Zelenskyy ever said these words. Nor did Snopes find any evidence indicating Ukraine had announced plans for "mass immigration."

Read More‘Died Suddenly’ Producer Promotes Fake CNN Post Containing Fake Zelenskyy Quote

Video shows Putin at judo coach’s burial in 2013, not Wagner leader’s funeral

Days after Wagner commander Yevgeny Prigozhin was confirmed dead in a plane crash, a video emerged on social media with claims that it showed Russian President Vladimir Putin attending his funeral. However, these claims are false; the footage dates back to 2013, and shows Putin at the funeral of his long-time judo trainer.

Read MoreVideo shows Putin at judo coach’s burial in 2013, not Wagner leader’s funeral

Twitter post: This is a lie. In the actual video he posted, the head of FEMA says the Individual And Households Program can give up to $41,000.

This is a lie. In the actual video he posted, the head of FEMA says the Individual And Households Program can give up to $41,000.

Ryan Knight is counting on people just reading his bullshit and not watching the video that contradicts his lie.

Read MoreTwitter post: This is a lie. In the actual video he posted, the head of FEMA says the Individual And Households Program can give up to $41,000.