BBC journalist Clive Myrie has been hailed by viewers, journalists and senior politicians after giving a powerful explanation of the media's presence in Ukraine following the Russian invasion. Journalists have been reporting live from Kyiv as Vladimir Putin's forces continue to head towards the capital city.
Myrie, who is also the host of Mastermind on BBC, said that it was part of the job and that none of the reporters there had been forced to go to Ukraine. Many viewers have asked after the safety of journalists reporting from the war zone.
Speaking on BBC News to journalist Christian Fraser, Myrie said: "We all feel that we want to tell the story of this war and tell it accurately and fairly. And that is really important because there is so much... I was going to use the word crap but I might as well... there is so much crap out there... misinformation, propaganda, nonsense.
"What you're trying to do, whether it's the New York Times, Washington Post, Channel 4, ITV, Sky, the BBC, you're trying to be truthful to the story. You're trying to represent the people who having to cowering down here. You want to represent them fairly."
But he stressed that all has to be weighed against their personal safety, said they all have a security team, and they talk about when they should perhaps pull out. And he questioned what would happen should the Russians succeed in taking the city and the journalists are still there.
Among those praising the journalist was Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon who said on twitter: "Journalists like Clive Myrie and so many others who report from war zones really are unsung heroes. Their professionalism, calm under pressure and sheer bravery is inspiring. Journalism at its very best."
Gerry Holt said: "Such a candid and calm answer from Clive Myrie when asked by Christian Fraser why he has decided to stay in Kyiv with BBC colleagues... So much respect for all journalists (local & international) in Ukraine right now."
Jono Read said: "So much respect Clive Myrie explaining why he's staying in Ukraine to report the war." Fran said: "Clive Myrie is a proper journalist. Respect.
Claire R wrote: "I love that he referenced all his colleagues from other news outlets. All there to tell the truth, and no doubt have each other’s backs at the same time." Claire Devine simply said: "Incredible."
