Mariupol's Hidden Truth: Russia's Influencer Army Masks Devastation

Mariupol's Reconstruction: A Battle of Narratives Three years after Russia's brutal siege, Mariupol, Ukraine, is undergoing reconstruction. However, the reality on the ground is far more complex than the rosy picture painted by a new generation of social media influencers. CNN's investigation reveals a network of "blogger schools" in the occupied city, training residents to create content that promotes a positive image of the Russian occupation. One influencer, speaking in a video, states, "Friends! Look how much they've done!" showcasing new buildings and cafes. This contrasts starkly with satellite images from Maxar, which reveal significant destruction across the city. The drama theater, bombed during the siege while sheltering hundreds of civilians, remains a stark reminder of the conflict's devastation. Mariupol's exiled mayor, Vadim Boichenko, dismisses the positive portrayal as an illusion, stating, "This propaganda, these made-up clips... will not help. Russia has committed a crime in Mariupol, and the people of Mariupol know it."