Officials identified fake websites, political ads, and misleading videos attacking Ukrainian President Zelenskyy during Moldova’s election.
The UK imposed sanctions on Russian media and propaganda outlets, warning Western nations to counter information warfare from hostile states.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sanctioned the Telegram channel Rybar, the Foundation for the Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots, and the Centre for Geopolitical Expertise.
Cooper said Estonian intelligence links some groups to Russia’s GRU, while two China-based firms faced sanctions for cyberattacks against the UK and allies.
Rising Hybrid Threats Challenge Europe
Cooper told the Foreign Office that adversaries aim to weaken infrastructure, erode national interests, and disrupt democratic systems.
She called Russia’s tactics information warfare and emphasised that the UK actively defends itself.
She described physical sabotage and disinformation campaigns flooding social media with AI-generated and manipulated videos, undermining support for Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s invasion.
Officials highlighted recent examples, including Moldova’s manipulated election ads and fake videos targeting Zelenskyy and his wife.
Urgent Need for International Cooperation
Cooper delivered her speech marking the 100th anniversary of the Locarno Treaties, which promoted European peace after World War I.
She urged nations to strengthen alliances while US President Donald Trump disrupted existing partnerships and questioned America’s NATO commitments.
After meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, Cooper said the talks confirmed strong US support for NATO.
