Clooney declines allegations regarding relations between his foundation, Russian reporters
(MENAFN) Amidst controversy surrounding the Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ), hollywood icon George Clooney has addressed allegations suggesting the foundation's involvement in targeting Russian journalists. The claims stemmed from remarks made by Anna Neistat, the legal director of The Docket, a journalism-focused unit supported by the CFJ. Neistat's interview with a Russian-language outlet raised concerns about the foundation's purported efforts to secure arrest warrants for Russian media professionals, alleging their involvement in "incitement to genocide" in Ukraine.
In response to the allegations, Clooney took to social media to assert that the foundation does not endorse targeting journalists, even if there are disagreements with their views. Emphasizing the foundation's commitment to protecting journalists, Clooney referenced his father's involvement in the media industry and reiterated the organization's longstanding support for press freedom.
Neistat's comments regarding The Docket's intentions sparked further debate, particularly concerning the potential implications for targeted individuals. She suggested that the foundation's actions could complicate travel for Russian journalists and expressed a desire to find a nation willing to covertly issue arrest warrants. Despite Neistat's assertions, Clooney's statement sought to distance the foundation from any involvement in such measures, reaffirming its dedication to upholding journalistic integrity and human rights.
The controversy surrounding the CFJ's alleged actions received attention from senior Ukrainian officials, who viewed Clooney's response as supportive of their efforts to counter "Russian propagandists." Andrey Yermak, chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, commended Clooney's remarks, aligning them with Kiev's objectives to sanction individuals deemed responsible for spreading misinformation and inciting conflict.
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