Russia's devious data war: Fake TikTok accounts and disinformation campaigns aimed at sowing discord in Ukraine
The ISW report echoes the sentiments aired by Ukraine's Defense Minister, Ruslan Umierov, on Saturday. According to him, Russia is trying to ignite an artificial conflict within the Ukrainian state leadership. As part of Russia's information-psychological operation, a narrative is being constructed that suggests Ukraine lacks support from its partners.
9:59 AM EST, December 17, 2023
Influence through false TikTok accounts
Analysts have highlighted a report by the Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab). The report reveals that representatives of Russia fabricated thousands of fictitious social media accounts to defame Ukraine’s then-Defense Minister, Oleksiy Reznikov. These fake TikTok accounts, operating in seven different languages, charged Reznikov with purchasing luxury goods. Moreover, they insinuated that the politician, along with the entire Ukrainian government, is profiteering from the war.
The discrediting of authorities continues
From ISW's analysis, it’s evident the institute consistently tracks the actions of Russian representatives, like Foreign Intelligence Chief Sergei Naryshkin and Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. They groundlessly allege Western countries' high-ranking officials intend to "replace" Zelenskyy. They also hint at inner conflicts between Zelenskyy and Zaluzhny.
Analysts at the American think tank observe Russian sources increasingly reporting alleged internal political tension in Ukraine. These efforts aim to discredit the Ukrainian authorities, sow discord between the society and the government, and diminish Western support for Ukraine.
