Russian fake: Times Square ad claims betting on Zelensky 'fleeing' Ukraine

Russian propagandists have fabricated a video using editing software to discredit President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Russian state-linked media, Telegram channels, and social media bots are circulating a short clip showing a billboard from New York City's Times Square, allegedly promoting Polymarket, a betting platform, where users could supposedly wager on the country to which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would "flee" following a supposed Ukrainian "surrender."

This is fake. Firstly, Polymarket does not offer any bets on Zelensky fleeing. The platform only accepts wagers on whether Ukraine will sign a U.S.-brokered peace deal or when a ceasefire might occur.

Secondly, the video features the logo of U.S. media outlet USA Today, but the clip is not present on the outlet's official website or social media channels.

Thirdly, the propaganda claims the ad appeared on a billboard on a Regal cinema building, but the screen actually displays only movie trailers and promotional posters.

Fourthly, the false clip originated from Ukrainian collaborator Oleg Tsaryov, who fled to Russia. Many of the fake videos even carry a watermark of his name.

Thus, the Russians fabricated the video using editing software and replaced the billboard advertisement.

It should be noted that the Russians have repeatedly circulated fake videos from well-known locations around the world. Previously, Ukrinform debunked Russian propaganda fakes involving altered social advertisements in Berlin and Tokyo, as well as in Times Square.

This particular fake is aimed at discrediting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and spreading false information to Western audiences, suggesting that Ukraine, rather than Russia, is allegedly the main obstacle to peace.

Previously, Russian propaganda also faked a Charlie Hebdo cover related to Angelina Jolie's visit to Ukraine.

Andriy Olenin