Russians and Ukrainians are deeply connected. Millions of Ukrainians have relatives in Russia. Many have lived in the country.

But Moscow has taken steps to shield its people from open information about the war, even as its bombing campaign intensifies.

When Ukrainians try to explain the dire situation to family members in Russia, they are often met with denial, resistance, and a kind of refusal to believe.

Guest: Valerie Hopkins, a correspondent for The New York Times, currently in Ukraine.

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Background reading: 

• A wave of disinformation has emanated from the Russian state as the Kremlin tries to shape the messages most Russians are receiving.
• At the same time, the last vestiges of a Russian free press are being dismantled.

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