Since 2022, Russia’s information operations have evolved beyond traditional propaganda into coordinated campaigns that align with military actions, cyberattacks, and intelligence operations, aiming to disrupt perceptions rather than merely persuade. This strategy—termed cognitive combat—leverages technology, psychological targeting, and military timing. Russia’s information campaign operates continuously, utilizing platforms like Telegram, automated botnets, and AI-generated content to compromise Ukrainian military cohesion, undermine civilian morale, and weaken Western unity regarding military support.
Recent examples include a deepfake video of Ukrainian President Zelenskyh urging capitulation and a disinformation campaign about a mutiny in the 59th Brigade, demonstrating the Kremlin’s capabilities in synthetic deception. Operations also manipulate public energy data, spread false narratives about NATO arms, and circulate fake evacuation orders to confuse Ukrainian defense efforts.
To counter these tactics, Ukraine has launched proactive measures, including Operation Black Storm, which targets Russian propaganda platforms. The newly established Centre for Perception Operations integrates military and media strategies to actively control narratives.
Overall, Russia’s disinformation cycle is systematic, combining cyber strikes with misinformation to cloud perceptions. Despite its technological advancements, the effectiveness of Moscow’s narratives is waning in the Global North, while Western and Ukrainian countermeasures are increasingly effective. The rapid spread of misinformation necessitates a coordinated, military-level response from allies, emphasizing the integral role of information resilience in collective defense strategies.
