The Embassy of Ukraine in the Kingdom of Norway is deeply concerned about the scheduled screening on 15 May of the documentary “Russians at War” and urges organizers Oslo Dokumentarkino, Stiftelsen Fritt Ord, and Vega Scene to cancel it.

Screening of this film by Russian filmmaker Anastasiya Trofimova would starkly contradict the principled and staunch support demonstrated by Norwegian people, government and municipalities for Ukraine against the backdrop of Russia's aggression.

The film would serve as a platform for disinformation and the Kremlin's false narratives. At a time when the international community is largely united in condemning Russia's aggression and war crimes, it aims to undermine that consensus and sow confusion.

It would also inflict additional pain and suffering on the victims of Russian aggression, including the significant number of Ukrainian refugees who have found safety in Norway. Being confronted with a film that attempts to justify the actions of those who have caused them immense loss and trauma would be deeply distressing and disrespectful.

Moreover, the film risks normalizing and even glorifying the actions of the aggressor. By presenting a distorted and self-serving portrayal of the conflict, it seeks to absolve Russia of responsibility for its brutal and unprovoked war. It could potentially incite division and misunderstanding within Norwegian society by presenting a false dichotomy and promoting Russian propaganda.

While we fully respect the principles of freedom of expression, it is essential to acknowledge that this freedom does not extend to the dissemination of harmful propaganda that denies atrocities, violates international law, and inflicts further suffering on victims of aggression. There is a clear distinction between artistic expression and the deliberate manipulation of information for political purposes.