Steve Cortez. Ukrainian corruption. kremlin propaganda. support of Ukraine

“Americans should no longer tolerate Ukrainian corruption because Zelenskyy and Yermak are authoritarian leaders who cannot be trusted.” These are the words of Steve Cortez, president of the American Workers League, in a column for Newsweek. russian propaganda quickly picked up on these statements. This looks very much like a coordinated disinformation campaign aimed at weakening support for Ukraine in the United States. This is not the first time Cortes has voiced arguments that benefit moscow, and he provides no evidence for his accusations.

In reality:
- No independent audit has found large-scale embezzlement of American aid. Reports from the State Department, the Pentagon and USAID do not record any critical violations. Ukraine regularly cooperates with international monitors and anti-corruption organisations.
- Zelenskyy and Yermak are constant targets of kremlin propaganda. Attempts are being made to discredit them through both russian media and Western publications.
– Steve Cortez actively promotes pro-russian views: he calls for reducing support for Ukraine, downplays the threat from russia, and does not condemn its crimes.
– In 2023–2025, Cortes frequently appears on platforms associated with disinformation, such as Newsmax and Real America’s Voice.
These statements are aimed at undermining trust in Ukraine in American society. Their goal is to reduce support for Kyiv, sow discord among allies, and play into moscow's hands.
Based on materials from Spravdi.ua
Read more: New Russian fakes about corruption in Ukraine.