European unity tested as Russian ties strengthen
More and more European Union countries are beginning to echo Vladimir Putin's rhetoric. Russia's isolation on the international stage is weakening, particularly due to its long-term propaganda policy. Experts highlight that the rising cost of living and energy prices might be sources of support for Russia.
Several European Union countries no longer hide their support for Russia. The Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, traveled to Moscow to "strengthen the cooperation between Russians and Slovaks." The strong relationships between Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orban, as well as the politicians of Austria's Freedom Party, which is poised to gain power, are well known.
On the horizon, more countries may "fall into the trap" of Russian propaganda. Among others, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) is recording good polling results, and it is known for its anti-European and pro-Russian rhetoric.
Will Russian propaganda stop attacking the EU? The expert speaks bluntly
According to Kot, the rise in electricity prices, the migration crisis, and the challenging conditions of European economies are linked to defending Ukraine through propaganda efforts.
The expert also believes that the end of the Ukraine-Russia conflict will not resolve the problem of Kremlin propaganda in Europe. In Bartłomiej Kot's opinion, European populists do not realize that Russia will continue to engage in, among other strategies, a hybrid war with EU countries.
In the eyes of the Kremlin, the rivalry with the West is systemic and will last as long as Russia perceives the EU and NATO as threats to its sphere of interests by providing Eastern European countries with an alternative in the form of political and economic alignment with the West, said Kot in an interview with "Fakt."
