Officials identified fake websites and misleading political ads during Moldova’s election and false videos targeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The UK imposed sanctions on Russian media outlets and ideological groups while urging Western nations to counter disinformation campaigns from hostile states.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sanctioned Telegram channel Rybar, the Foundation for the Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots Living Abroad, and Aleksandr Dugin’s Centre for Geopolitical Expertise.
Cooper also sanctioned two China-based companies for extensive cyberattacks against the UK and allied nations.
Hybrid Threats Pose Growing Danger
Cooper warned at the Foreign Office that adversaries target infrastructure, democratic institutions, and national interests through hybrid threats.
She described the campaigns as Russian information warfare and stressed that Britain actively defends itself.
She highlighted sabotage and social media disinformation, including AI-generated and manipulated videos, aimed at weakening Western support for Ukraine.
Officials cited Moldova’s election and false Zelenskyy content as recent examples of coordinated misinformation.
Calls for Stronger International Cooperation
Cooper delivered her address on the 100th anniversary of the Locarno Treaties, which historically strengthened European peace.
She emphasized global collaboration, warning that US President Donald Trump’s actions threaten NATO alliances and sow uncertainty about America’s commitment.
Cooper noted her meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the United States’ strong support for NATO.
