Germany warns of possible Russian influence on state elections

Germany's Federal Ministry of the Interior has warned that state elections in the east of the country could become a potential target for Russian disinformation campaigns.

Source: a representative of the ministry in an interview with German newspaper Handelsblatt, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The ministry emphasises that Russia may try to manipulate the upcoming state elections.

"We have to assume that all elections in our country are a potential target for illegitimate influence," the representative said.

By doing so, Russia is trying to "illegally influence public debate and political decision-making in Germany," they added.

The ministry observed a rise in disinformation from Russian official bodies, state- and government-affiliated media and social media accounts since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"They are using false information to foment emotionally charged discussions and deliberately pit social groups against each other," the representative stated.

Background:

• In late July, US intelligence warned about an avalanche of disinformation from the Russian Federation before the election.
• A few months ago, European intelligence agencies informed their governments that Russia was planning a pan-European sabotage.

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