I feel the same. Besides what you mentioned, there is also the effect on what news and content will be produced and shown (see Manufacturing Consent). The advertisers who are the customers of shows want the viewers in a buying mood. So while "if it bleeds it leads" works fine but controversial topics that disturbs people or make them think will not be shown.
Best example is youtube - once the demonetization came there must have been significant effects on what topics were discussed and how. Without sponsorings and patreon it would be worse, but this or rule is shaping our global civilization for the worse.
People pay far too much attention to ideology, but it's the rules of a system that lead it to converge to different outcomes. And advertising is a big one.
Saying Russia's rationale is supported by evidence like the NATO chief saying that and lots of other "non pro Russia" leaders. Just because it's a "banned" opinion in mainstream (not political correct) doesn't make it false, or make one a tankie, or pro-Russia.
The problem is if you do not accept different viewpoints there is no space for negotiations or peace agreements, only questionable and bloody victory. And that little trick is the real 1984 for me, not the shit MAGA is pulling off. The entire mainstream and "left" have swallowed this narrative and attack anyone with different opinions with personal attacks, even if they have clear evidence supporting their opinions.