Russian Deputy Zhuravlyov Calls for Killing Up to Half of Ukraine's Population

Russian State Duma deputy Aleksey Zhuravlyov has made extremely radical statements in a recent interview, calling for the elimination of a large portion of Ukraine's population.

In a conversation with blogger Ivan Mironov, Zhuravlyov said that to eradicate "Nazism", as many people as needed could be killed – even half of Ukraine's population. He claimed that the share of "Nazis" in Ukraine had grown from 2% to 20-30%, and when asked if they should all be destroyed, he replied "Preferably." The deputy added that "all Nazis must be destroyed" and if there were 50%, they too should be eliminated.

When asked how to distinguish a "fascist" from a non-fascist, Zhuravlyov gave a simple answer: those who are armed and resist the Russian army. "See – kill," he said. The deputy also repeated the Russian propaganda myth about a "crucified boy", claiming he had seen it himself.

When the interviewer asked why Zhuravlyov himself was not on the front lines, the deputy reacted aggressively. He said he was only in Moscow because of the elections, but he has been "there" since 2014. After swearing and leaving the interview, Zhuravlyov later told local media that he and Mironov have known each other for a long time, but he personally wants to capture Kyiv, not end the war.

Zhuravlyov has previously become known for other propagandist claims, such as about zoophile brothels in Denmark and fines for criticizing pedophiles in Italy.