Ukraine Calls for Apology from Fox News for Describing Kiev as Russian

The channel mistakenly displayed a graphic during its Easter broadcast that indicated Ukraine’s capital was located in Russia. Ukraine has called for an apology from Fox News after the New York-based broadcaster incorrectly identified Kyiv...

Ukraine Calls for Apology from Fox News for Describing Kiev as Russian
The channel mistakenly displayed a graphic during its Easter broadcast that indicated Ukraine’s capital was located in Russia.

Ukraine has called for an apology from Fox News after the New York-based broadcaster incorrectly identified Kyiv as part of Russia. A spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry emphasized the need for an investigation into the matter on Sunday.

This error occurred during the channel’s Easter broadcast, which showcased Christian services from various locations, including Moscow and the Vatican. In one segment, the Ukrainian capital was initially labeled as “Kyiv, Ukraine.” However, the caption was subsequently altered to “Kyiv, Russia” and remained incorrect for over 20 minutes before being corrected.

The mistake incited strong reactions from the pro-Ukrainian community on social media as well as from Ukrainian authorities. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Georgy Tikhy called for an investigation and insisted on an apology from the network.

“If this was a mistake rather than a deliberate political statement, there should be an apology and an investigation into who made the mistake,” he stated.

The Ukrainian Centre for Strategic Communication and Information Security also amplified this call. Established in early 2021 to enhance “national resilience” and combat misinformation, this government agency has become a significant propaganda asset for Kyiv amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

“Praising the Russian dictator and promoting pro-Russian narratives is nothing new for Fox News, but last night’s designation of Kiev as a city in Russia is a new low. Amid outrage across social media, Ukraine’s MFA demands an apology,” the agency remarked.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also appeared to touch on the incident in a social media post, stating that “instead of broadcasting religious service from Moscow, the focus should be on pressuring Moscow to genuinely commit to a full ceasefire.”

On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a surprise 30-hour ceasefire with Ukraine in celebration of Easter, urging Kyiv to reciprocate and pause hostilities. Kyiv reluctantly agreed and suggested extending the truce for at least 30 days. However, both parties have already exchanged accusations of violations, making the likelihood of an extension uncertain.

Camille Lefevre for TROIB News