A Melbourne radio station is under fire amid allegations it aired anti-Ukraine propaganda in the days after Russia launched a brutal warfare attack on its neighbouring country.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is investigating Russian radio station 3ZZZ after numerous complaints were filed about content aired on multiple shows across the station following the beginning of the war in Ukraine.
The station was accused of spreading pro-Kremlin sentiment and misinformation about the conflict in Ukraine.
The program reportedly played a song containing derogatory lyrics about Ukrainian people and politicians, claimed the Russian army had not been attacking Ukrainian towns and aired Vladimir Putin’s justification for the invasion.
In a statement, the ACMA confirmed it had received four complaints about the broadcasts.
“We are concerned about the issues raised and are currently considering the matter, including reviewing the content of two episodes of the program,” a spokesperson said.
“At the same time, we have been in contact with the broadcaster and urged them to expedite their response to the matter.”
The Community Broadcasters Association of Australia has also been in contact with the broadcaster.
The war in Ukraine is in its fourth week and Moscow has been amping up its information war against the West to justify its actions.
Russian-speaking Rost Vashevnik, who has lived in Australia for 34 years, said he had listened to the programs in question.
“I listen to this garbage two times per week,” he told the Herald Sun.
“I analyse and find new ample evidence of propaganda.”
Following multiple complaints, the radio station reportedly told complainants there was a six-week review turn around.
The Ukrainian Association of Victoria said 3ZZZ’s six-week review policy was “disgusting” and that its bosses needed to be held to account.
“We’re Australia, we’re democratic, we know the truth,” said Noble Park branch president Liana Slipetsky.
“In extreme times, like what we’re living in now, I don’t think complaints about Russian propaganda should take a back seat.”
Anti-war protests earlier this month broke out in major cities across the world, including a rally that attracted thousands in Melbourne.
Russian-identifying people were also seen in the crowds showing their support for Ukraine and distancing themselves from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions.
A Russian man at the Melbourne protest went to extraordinary lengths to show support for Ukraine, going as far as setting his passport on fire in an act of defiance.
In the vision posted across social media, former Russian citizen Andrei was visibly shaking as pieces of ash fell to the ground outside Treasury Gaxjmtzywrdens.
Asked by a bystander if he was denouncing Russian President Vladimir Putin, he simply said: “Absolutely, yes.”
“Curse him and everything he stands for,” Andrei said.
“I hope he will not live for much longer.”
