Russia Activates Disinformation Campaign Ahead of German Elections - Reuters

Russia has stepped up its disinformation campaign ahead of the upcoming elections for the parliaments of Germany's federal states. This is reported by Reuters, citing sources within German security services.

According to the agency, the campaign is primarily directed against political competitors of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Sources indicate that its aim is to disrupt the country’s political landscape and discredit the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU), its coalition partner the Social Democratic Party (SPD), as well as the Greens and the Free Democratic Party (FDP).

Reuters reports that mainly English-language posts have been circulating on social media, featuring the logos of reputable media outlets, including the BBC and German broadcaster ARD. These posts have contained false accusations against local politicians, ranging from financial embezzlement to sexual assault and violence.

The agency notes that Moscow consistently denies its involvement in disinformation campaigns against the West. According to Reuters, a representative of Germany's Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that the government is monitoring a significant disinformation campaign conducted through a large network named “Matryoshka,” which, according to German authorities, has been created by Russia to influence foreign audiences.

“At this moment, the campaign does not have a broad reach on the internet. However, that does not mean we can let our guard down. This is still a serious disinformation campaign,” said the Ministry representative.

Reuters reminds that Russia is regularly accused of attempting to interfere in the electoral processes of other countries. Recently, similar allegations have also been made regarding attempts to influence elections in Moldova and Armenia. Additionally, ahead of last year's federal elections in Germany, the government also warned about a similar disinformation campaign.