Zelensky Says Putin Is Trying to 'Manipulate' Donald Trump
NewsweekJAN 21
Report: Ukrainian Intel Chief Says Country Faces Existential Crisis Unless Talks Start by Summer
Above: Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine's Military Intelligence, pictured on Feb. 25, 2024, in Kyiv, Ukraine. Image credit: Sergei Supinsky/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The quotes attributed to Budanov in the press during a classified, closed-door meeting do not reflect what was really said. Journalists need to be careful not to publish unverified information and be mindful of politicians who may distort statements to further their own political agenda.
Cynical narrative
There's an old adage in journalism: Do not believe anything until it's officially denied.