A recent study by the civic network ‘Opora’ has raised concerns about the Telegram channel ‘Lachen Pyshe,’ owned by prominent blogger and volunteer Ihor Lachenkov. The analysis indicates that the channel exhibits signs of systematic discrediting campaigns, aggressive rhetoric, and narratives that undermine public trust in government during wartime.
The research, which examined over 60 channels, suggests that coordinated discrediting efforts are particularly aimed at local authorities in cities such as Kyiv, Mykolaiv, and Odesa, with less frequent attacks on Dnipro and Cherkasy. Lachenkov’s content frequently targets mayors Vitaliy Klitschko and Borys Filatov, contributing to a broader narrative that may serve foreign interests.
“During wartime, when the enemy seeks to destabilize the situation within the country and erode trust in state institutions, the dissemination of such narratives transcends mere ‘criticism’—it operates in the interests of the Kremlin,”
According to the report, Lachenkov presents himself as a volunteer and activist, framing his posts as criticism. However, ‘Opora’ argues that this characterization may be a facade, as the distinction between constructive criticism and blatant discrediting is crucial. The report defines legitimate criticism as fact-based and devoid of derogatory language, while discrediting involves insults, generalizations, sarcasm, or exaggerations that portray authorities as criminal or incompetent.
Furthermore, the study highlights numerous instances of derogatory and discriminatory rhetoric in Lachenkov’s posts, which contradict the principles of constructive criticism. Examples include disparaging remarks directed at the Kyiv City Council and various public officials.
Notably, these campaigns often disguise attacks as ‘exposés’ of corruption while also serving promotional purposes. The researchers identified two significant cases in which Lachenkov’s channel targeted Klitschko and later engaged in conflict with the mayor of Dnipro. During the latter incident, Lachenkov directed his audience to the Telegram channel ‘Siry Krit,’ which saw a subscriber increase from 28,000 to 42,000, raising suspicions of a Russian connection.
‘Opora’ emphasizes the nature of these attacks, which revolve around narratives of ‘moral degradation’ among local authorities and ‘profiteering from war.’ Lachenkov’s rhetoric, which labels Filatov as a ‘looter,’ aligns with a larger information campaign against local governance.
Overall, ‘Opora’ has documented discrediting campaigns against at least four officials, including Mykolaiv Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych, Member of Parliament Danilo Hetmantsev, Health Minister Viktor Liashko, and Minister for Communities and Territories Oleksii Kuleba. These campaigns often occur simultaneously; for instance, during an information wave against Liashko, similar publications appeared on both Lachenkov’s channel and the ‘Dzhoker’ channel, suggesting a coordinated effort involving Lachenkov.
A study by 'Opora' reveals that the Telegram channel 'Lachen Pyshe,' managed by Ihor Lachenkov, engages in systematic discrediting of local authorities, particularly during wartime. The research highlights the channel's use of aggressive rhetoric and narratives that may undermine public trust in government institutions.
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