The expert estimates that Veronika Stepanova is a herald of Russian propaganda.
Veronika Stepanova won relay gold for Russia in Beijing. EPA / AOP
Russian skier Veronika Stepanova has become known for his statements Vladimir Putin and as a supporter of the war of aggression in Ukraine.
Norwegian newspaper VG’s in the interview, Stepanova, who won the relay gold at the Beijing Olympics, proudly campaigned for her country, even though her views were contrasted with an expert from a human rights organization.
– Who else should I support other than the Russians? A small, loud group that has taken over the political discourse and is spreading the hatred of the European media, Stepanova wrote to the Norwegian media on social media.
Through the Russian media and social media, Stepanova has attacked the West with her positions.
Russian athletes are banned from international competitions in many sports. Stepanova had her own thoughts about how skiing will not survive without the Russians.
In the Russian woman’s opinion, cross-country skiing will suffer without its biggest TV audience and media licenses, which cost the races, athletes and prize money.
Human rights expert Ivar Dale told VG that Stepanova is engaged in propaganda driven by the Russian regime. The message is very clear: Russia is being made a victim. Dale thinks that the skier’s target audience is ordinary Russians.
Stepanova was provoked by the expert’s claims, although Dale reminded her that Russia strongly punishes those who oppose the war.
– Everyone thinks the same as me. They’re just a little quieter about it. It is true that some people have different opinions. Maybe two or three people out of a hundred think so. It’s democracy. They are open about their views, even if I think they are wrong. However, none of them have been punished for it, Stepanova announced.
Russian skiers will probably not be allowed on the slopes for the coming winter. The international skiing federation FIS will make the final decision next week.