Russia Strikes Back at Allegations of Building ‘Savage’ Propaganda Machine

The creation of the European center to counter Russian propaganda is absolutely hypocritical, Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, told Hufvudstadsbladet.

Zakharova underscored that the West is conducting a so-called “zero good news from Russia” policy.

She added that the success of the Russia Today TV channel in foreign media markets stems from Western audiences’ need for alternative sources of information.

Zakharova harshly criticized the European Union for creating an expert group which would elaborate a strategy to counter Russian propaganda.

"Over many years, the Russians were portrayed as savages who drink vodka and wear bear fur hats. But when we try to destroy those myths we are accused of building a propaganda machine," she said.

She pointed out that dialogue between Russia and the West would be improved only when "everyone has their rights observed and are treated with respect."