Russia's election disinformation: Claims stir German debate

Many pieces of information provided by Russian media or government representatives are elements of propaganda. Such reports are part of the information war conducted by the Russian Federation.

Russia alleges that Germany is preparing "Nazi units" to occupy Ukraine. According to "Bild," these reports originate from the Russian foreign intelligence service (SWR). The portal notes that this is part of the Kremlin's disinformation campaign aimed at influencing German public opinion before the upcoming elections.

The main goal of this campaign is to discourage the public from supporting any peaceful resolution in Ukraine. "Bild" emphasizes that the Kremlin also wants to derail plans for deploying peacekeeping forces that could protect Ukraine from further Russian attacks.

Military historian Soenke Neitzel from the University of Potsdam described these accusations as "pure disinformation." According to him, the idea that NATO countries could participate in the occupation of Ukraine is "impossible and grotesque."

SWR suggests that the "occupation" of Ukraine would occur under the pretext of sending a peacekeeping contingent. The Russian intelligence service indicates alleged areas of division: the Black Sea coast for Romania, the western regions for Poland, the center and east for Germany, and the northern areas, including Kyiv, for the United Kingdom.

Experts point out that the aim of this disinformation is to portray Germany as a "Nazi power." These actions are intended to mobilize pro-Russian circles in both Russia and Germany.

"Bild" notes that the only Western company mentioned in this story is the German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall, which has already been targeted by Russians. The mention of Rheinmetall is seen as a threat to its plants in Ukraine, neighboring countries, and Germany.