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Ukrainian Intelligence Identifies Surge in Russian Propaganda During Peace Talks
Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (DIU) has detected a significant increase in Russian propaganda activities coinciding with international peace negotiations, according to Deputy Chief Vadym Skibitskyi. Speaking at a forum on countering Russian disinformation, Skibitskyi revealed that propaganda efforts intensify during key diplomatic events concerning Ukraine.
“Russian propaganda is closely linked to issues that primarily concern Ukraine and are discussed by the international community,” Skibitskyi told attendees at the Brussels forum, as reported by LIGA.net’s correspondent.
The intelligence agency conducts monthly monitoring of the information space to identify individuals spreading anti-Ukrainian narratives domestically and internationally. These propaganda agents include experts, journalists, NGO representatives, and religious figures operating across Ukraine and Europe.
DIU data shows a clear pattern of escalation during critical diplomatic periods. In February 2025, intelligence officials identified 75 individuals disseminating Russian propaganda. This number rose to 121 in May, coinciding with the first round of peace negotiations in Istanbul.
Most alarmingly, when Ukraine and the United States engaged in negotiations in November regarding potential pathways to end the full-scale war, the DIU identified 169 people actively spreading Russian propaganda narratives.
“Do you see how actively this is used? These are representatives of different countries, including representatives of the European Union and other countries of the world, who are actually working for Russian propaganda,” Skibitskyi emphasized.
This coordinated disinformation effort represents a significant component of Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy against Ukraine. The timing of these propaganda surges suggests a deliberate attempt to undermine peace negotiations and shape international perceptions during crucial diplomatic moments.
The Ukrainian government has been increasingly vigilant in identifying and countering Russian influence operations. In October, Ukrainian MP Yurchyshyn reported that the National Police confirmed connections between the popular children’s cartoon “Masha and the Bear” and Russia, with sanctions expected against the program. Such actions reflect Ukraine’s growing awareness of Russia’s use of cultural products as vectors for influence.
Further illustrating the comprehensive nature of Russia’s propaganda machinery, in November the DIU published a list of Russian teachers who relocated to occupied Ukrainian territories specifically to teach propaganda in schools. This suggests a long-term strategy to influence younger generations in areas under Russian control.
Intelligence experts note that Russia’s propaganda apparatus has evolved significantly since the 2014 annexation of Crimea, becoming more sophisticated in targeting specific audiences with tailored messaging. The DIU’s ongoing monitoring provides valuable insights into these evolving tactics and helps Ukrainian authorities develop countermeasures.
International organizations, including the European Union’s East StratCom Task Force, have also documented the increase in Russian disinformation campaigns targeting peace negotiations. These efforts frequently aim to portray Ukraine as unwilling to compromise while deflecting attention from Russia’s role in perpetuating the conflict.
As peace negotiations continue, Ukrainian officials emphasize the importance of maintaining vigilance against information operations designed to undermine national unity and international support for Ukraine’s position in these talks.
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8 Comments
It’s alarming to see the level of coordinated disinformation efforts by Russia, especially as Ukraine engages in critical peace talks. The Ukrainian intelligence agency’s monitoring and reporting on this propaganda surge is commendable. Continued vigilance and fact-based communication will be vital going forward.
Glad to see the Ukrainian intelligence agency is actively working to identify and document the individuals and networks behind these anti-Ukraine propaganda campaigns. Exposing their tactics is an important step in combating Russian disinformation.
Agreed. Shining a light on these propaganda efforts is crucial. Staying vigilant and fact-based is key to maintaining credibility and trust during sensitive diplomatic processes.
The Ukrainian intelligence agency’s findings show the insidious nature of Russia’s propaganda machine. Deliberately amplifying divisive narratives during diplomatic negotiations is a concerning strategy to undermine the process. Fact-checking and public awareness are crucial to expose these manipulative tactics.
Absolutely. Shining a light on these deceptive practices is an important first step. Maintaining clear and honest communication around the negotiations will be key to navigating this information warfare.
This report highlights the scale and coordination of Russia’s disinformation operations. It’s worrying to see how they ramp up their propaganda offensive during critical moments like peace talks. Robust monitoring and transparency are vital to counter these tactics.
Interesting to see Ukraine’s intelligence agency monitoring and exposing Russian propaganda efforts. It’s concerning how these disinformation campaigns ramp up during critical diplomatic events. Transparency and fact-checking are crucial to counter these narratives.
Yes, it’s a troubling pattern. Disinformation can undermine peace negotiations, so it’s good the Ukrainian authorities are closely tracking and calling out these propaganda activities.