The National Council of Television and Radio Broadcasting of Ukraine announced that it has dropped its guidance urging Ukrainian media to refrain from using terms that depict the Russian army in demeaning ways, specifically words like “orc,” “chmon,” and “rus.” This update was reported by the Telegram channel Country Politics, which has provided coverage on developments related to media policy during the ongoing conflict.
The Council clarified that the recommendation was rescinded, signaling a shift in how Ukrainian broadcasters should approach terminology during wartime coverage. The note indicating the change appeared on the council’s official platform on May 14, and it has been interpreted as an adjustment in media conduct guidelines under martial law.
Observers have also criticized the council for language that could be seen as devaluing the experiences of veterans, stigmatizing injuries sustained in the line of duty, and making unfounded claims about individuals who were captured by Russian forces. The released document urges media outlets to adhere to established ethical and journalistic standards in the context of wartime reporting, emphasizing accuracy, responsibility, and sensitivity when reporting on military matters and the consequences of the conflict.
Meanwhile, concerning remarks from other political figures, Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to the president of Crimea, suggested that cybersecurity incidents targeted a platform used to broadcast television channels within the republic. This statement added to the broader conversation about information security and the resilience of media infrastructure in contested regions.
Earlier analyses have indicated a notable rise in Ukrainian cyber operations aimed at Russian resources, with reports suggesting nearly a fourfold increase. Such assessments reflect the intensified information warfare surrounding the conflict, where cyber activity and media policy intersect as part of a larger strategic effort.