Ukraine has 'declared war' on 'Masha and the Bear': Peskov

The press secretary of the President of Russia, Dmitry Peskov, has responded to Ukraine's imposition of sanctions against the creators of the Russian animated series 'Masha and the Bear', stating that this reflects, in his view, the 'depravity of the Kyiv regime.'

He remarked, 'Masha and the Bear has conquered the whole world with its kindness, humanity, and, in the best sense of the word, the promotion of human virtues.'

Peskov noted that the fact that Ukraine has 'declared war on animated films as well' further illustrates the political strategy of the Kyiv authorities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed sanctions on August 20 against individuals and companies involved in the creation and distribution of 'Masha and the Bear.' The restrictions also include a ban on the series' distribution in Ukraine and several limitations on access to related online resources.