Concerns Over 'Dangerous Ukrainian Pyrotechnics' Spread in Russia
As the New Year approaches, Russians are facing intimidation through alarming messages circulating on social media, warning of 'dangerous' fireworks allegedly imported from Ukraine. A voice message claiming that Ukrainian special services are delivering firecrackers filled with explosives has gained traction, prompting officials to urge citizens to refrain from purchasing pyrotechnics. The message warns that these firecrackers could explode immediately upon ignition, leading to potential harm during holiday celebrations.
In response to these claims, the operational headquarters in Stavropol has labeled the information as a fake, stating that similar messages have also appeared in Krasnodar Krai and Dagestan. Authorities are taking steps to ensure public safety by monitoring sales of pyrotechnics in local markets and advising residents to buy from reputable stores only.
The Role of Misinformation in Public Perception
Russian State Duma deputy Oleg Matveychev has commented on the situation, suggesting that misinformation is a tool used not just by Ukrainians but also by Western entities. He emphasizes the need for citizens to practice 'information hygiene' and critically evaluate the content they encounter online. Matveychev warns that the spread of such fakes aims to instill fear and disrupt holiday festivities, portraying Ukrainians as a pervasive threat.
Military expert Boris Rozhin also weighed in, asserting that no pyrotechnics are officially imported from Ukraine and that rumors of dangerous products are likely fabricated to create panic. He notes that while defective pyrotechnics from other countries could exist, attributing them to Ukraine is a deliberate misinformation tactic.
Regional Bans on Fireworks Amid Safety Concerns
Amid these tensions, several Russian regions have implemented bans on fireworks for the New Year celebrations, although these measures are not directly linked to the fake news about Ukrainian pyrotechnics. For instance, the Kaluga region has prohibited the sale and use of pyrotechnics from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, citing public safety as the primary concern. Governor Vladislav Shapsha has expressed hope that residents will understand the necessity of these restrictions.
Deputy Chairman of the A Just Russia faction, Dmitry Gusev, has called for a nationwide halt to pyrotechnics during the holidays, suggesting that funds typically spent on fireworks could be redirected to support military efforts. This sentiment is echoed by the public movement 'Veterans of Russia,' which has proposed similar bans, citing potential misinterpretations of fireworks as military attacks and the need for heightened security during these tumultuous times.
