Clive Myrie shares frustration at fake news about Ukraine crisis

BBC News reporter Clive Myrie has shared his frustration at the amount of fake news shared about the Ukraine crisis on social media.

The journalist has been reporting from Ukraine during attacks by Russia, showing the terrifying reality faced by people forced to flee their homes.

But Myrie told of his annoyance again over false stories being spread about the true nature of the war as he supported a tweet urging people to be careful of their news sources.

Read more: Nicola Sturgeon calls Clive Myrie 'unsung hero' for staying in Ukraine to report on crisis

He shared a tweet linking back to a BBC article about disinformation, which read: "Nearly two weeks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, false claims the war is a hoax or a media fabrication have been gaining traction online. The latest edition of our misinformation roundup is out."

It also included a comment from BBC journalist Robert Rea, who wrote: "This shows - once again - the vital need for people to rely on verified news from trusted sources and not - as my colleague @CliveMyrieBBC might put it - some of the unverified crap that finds its way to social media."

Myrie supported his colleague's tweet by sharing it and writing: "DON’T GET ME STARTED!!!!!!! I’M ABOUT TO BLOW!!!!#UkraineRussianWar"

Watch: How TikTokers are covering the Ukraine crisis

BBC News viewers showed their appreciation for Myrie's detailed reports on the war as they encouraged him by commenting on his tweet.

Read more: Russian soldiers shot at British gardeners trying to rescue Ukrainians

One person wrote: "You are doing a wonderful job of keeping us informed of what exactly is happening… we all appreciate you and your teams work more than you’ll ever know."

Someone else agreed: "Stay strong and focused Clive, we need you and your team to show us the truth. Shame on our government for failing us and the Ukraine."

Another person added: "Tell it like it is. You're there. You're experiencing it. Be honest. We need you to be."

Read more: Clive Myrie shares sobering moment he had to write goodbye letter from the frontline

Broadcaster Floella Benjamin also added her support by tweeting: "So very proud of you Clive, you are one of my #Playschool Babies who is making a difference by reporting harrowing events as they unfold."

Myrie replied to her: "Hey young lady! Lovely to hear from you x"

The BBC presenter also took time to thank his followers for their support over the last fortnight, promising that he will return to Ukraine in the future.

On Sunday, Myrie shared his long journey out of Kyiv as he and his film crew left the city which was coming under intensified attacks, but has explained that he wants to stay in Ukraine to make sure the conflict is being accurately reported.

Watch: BBC's Clive Myrie explains why he's staying in Ukraine