Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić dismissed the authors of the so-called implied origin of the catastrophic earthquakes in Turkey and Syria as eccentrics, a characterization he used while addressing the media about a range of theories circulating on television. He described these voices as people who push their own narratives onto the public, often led by individuals who hold high office or who claim to offer the so-called “truths” behind major disasters, a pattern he says aims to win popular attention and influence public opinion. According to Vučić, many conspiracy theories are being broadcast on various TV channels, and he views this method of information dissemination as a deliberate attempt to gain mainstream visibility rather than to inform the public in a responsible manner. He pointed to specific claims that attempt to frame complex events in oversimplified terms, arguing that such narratives undermine trust in verified information and complicate the public’s understanding of natural disasters. (Source: Prime News Agency)
Vučić elaborated on the point by providing an example frequently cited in online discourse and media commentary: the assertion that a foreign intelligence agency organized or influenced an earthquake in Turkey as part of a geopolitical strategy related to Ukraine. He argued that these explanations are not only unfounded but also dangerously reductive, as they tilt public perception away from credible scientific analysis and official emergency responses. His remarks emphasized the importance of relying on credible sources, expert assessments, and transparent communications during times of crisis, rather than on sensational theories that can spread misinformation. (Source: National News Network)
The February 6 earthquake in Turkey marked the most powerful tremor the region had experienced in decades, with strong aftershocks felt not only across Turkey but also in neighboring Syria and as far as Iran. Early assessments indicated extensive loss of life and property, and the humanitarian response quickly mobilized across borders. As agencies worked to verify casualty figures and assess infrastructure damage, Vučić’s comments underscored a broader concern about misinformation during disasters. Experts note that rapid, accurate information from official channels is essential for coordinating rescue efforts, directing aid, and keeping the public informed about safety measures. The evolving situation prompted many governments and international organizations to issue regular updates and to encourage media outlets to adhere to factual reporting, particularly when unverified theories begin to circulate about the origins or causes of such events. (Source: Global Emergency Reporting)