Russian propaganda telegram channels are spreading information that Poltava police have allegedly created a sample statement of apology for citizens listening to Russian music. In particular, it says the following: “I sincerely apologize to the citizens of Ukraine for listening to a Russian song. I condemn Russian aggression and am ready to be punished to the fullest extent of the law”. Propagandists add a photo of the corresponding “statement” as proof.

However, this is a primitive fake. The main department of the National Police in the Poltava region denied this news. This is reported by VoxCheck. In addition, a reverse photo search on Google showed that images with the “statement” are mostly distributed by Russian publications and telegram channels. Also in the text of the forgiveness they use the expression “to apologize”, which is uncharacteristic for the Ukrainian language, whereas the correct way to write it is “to ask for forgiveness, to apologize”.

In June 2022, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a law banning Russian music in Ukrainian media and public space, but it does not provide for a specific fine. In August 2023, a bill was submitted to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to establish fines for the use of songs or videos of banned Russian performers in trade, public catering and service establishments in the amount of 5,100 to 7,500 UAH. Repeated violation will be punishable by a fine of 17,000 UAH. This bill is at the familiarization stage.