In a concerning development for European democracy, a BBC investigation has exposed a clandestine Russian-funded operation aiming to destabilize upcoming elections. Operating through various social media platforms, this network is actively involved in spreading pro-Russian propaganda and fabricated news, with a particular focus on undermining Moldova’s ruling pro-EU party ahead of its parliamentary elections.
Our undercover reporter infiltrated the operation, revealing how participants are paid to create and disseminate content designed to sway public opinion. The network is also reportedly engaged in illegal polling activities, using doctored results to cast doubt on the legitimacy of election outcomes. This sophisticated disinformation campaign, linked to sanctioned Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor and the NGO Evrazia, highlights the growing threat of foreign interference in democratic processes.
Officials from Moldova’s police have noted a shift in campaign tactics, moving from financial influence to widespread disinformation. The network’s extensive use of platforms like TikTok and Facebook, leveraging AI tools to create seemingly organic content, has allowed it to reach millions of users across the region. The implications of such coordinated campaigns are significant, potentially influencing voter behavior and eroding trust in democratic institutions. The investigation also uncovered evidence of direct financial ties to Russian state-owned entities, underscoring the international dimension of these operations.