WaPost Runs Russian Propaganda Section
Aug 27, 2008 07:40 AM EST
Today's
Washington Post arrived with an insert that looked very much like part of the newspaper. The insert section titled, "
Russia, Beyond The Headlines" could easily be confused with real news -- despite the words, "an advertising supplement to the Washington Post," and the disclaimer: "This pull-out is produced and published by Rosslyskaya Gazeta (Russia) and did not involve the news or editorial departments of the Washington Post."
The top story headline reads: "
Georgian Bombs Rained on Us." And though it is carefully arranged to look like a legitimate newspaper (some sections deal with literature, investments, etc.) the goal is obviously propaganda. Another front page (below the fold) section is headlined, "
Minister Faults West in Georgia." Here's an excerpt:
"Russia started moving troops in support of peacekeepers only on the second day of Georgia's full-scale military assault on the republic."
It is frankly unbelievable that the
Post is making money off of running Russian agitprop in their paper.
Update:
Rob Bluey emails me some good points on the subject (check out his post over at
RedState):
1) . This comes on the same day when the Washington Post put a story on A1 about Russia supporting the independence of South Ossetia and Abkhazia. I know there are lines between editorial and advertising, but most people probably won’t pay attention to the fine print.
2) . I’ve seen the Washington Post run these supplements before for Russia and several other countries. I’m sure they’re paying a pretty penny to advertise. But it must be effective, otherwise we wouldn’t see so many doing it.