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Fake Abortion Ban Video Exposed as Part of Russian Disinformation Campaign Against Armenia
A sophisticated disinformation campaign using artificially generated video content and falsely bearing CivilNet’s logo has been circulating widely on social media, falsely claiming the Armenian government plans to implement a total nationwide abortion ban.
The English-language video, spreading primarily on X (formerly Twitter), falsely claims Armenia’s government has finalized legislation imposing a complete ban on abortion, reversing decades of established policy. The fabricated news report frames this supposed ban as a response to demographic challenges and a political strategy to appeal to conservative and religious voters ahead of Armenia’s 2026 parliamentary elections.
Armenian officials have categorically denied the claims. The Ministry of Health issued an official statement emphasizing that no such abortion ban initiative exists, describing the materials as “manipulative disinformation” consistent with hybrid influence operations targeting the country.
Investigation reveals the video was created using artificial intelligence tools, featuring synthesized voice and edited footage designed to mimic a genuine news broadcast. The fabricated content has been disseminated since February 8 through dozens of inauthentic accounts on X – primarily profiles unrelated to Armenia that usually post content about humor, sports, and cryptocurrency, a common tactic used to artificially amplify disinformation campaigns.
International researchers have identified this operation as part of a known Russian disinformation network, variously called “Matryoshka,” “Operation Overload,” or “Storm-1679.” This network specializes in creating fake videos misappropriating logos of respected media outlets like BBC, Euronews, and Deutsche Welle to lend credibility to false narratives. In this instance, CivilNet’s branding was exploited to make the story appear legitimate to both Armenian and international audiences.
The campaign employs a hybrid approach combining “Storm-1679” tactics with those of another known operation called “Storm-1516.” This method first plants fabricated “investigative articles” on foreign websites, which are then referenced as reliable primary sources for the disinformation.
One such source is an article published on the Turkish “ODA TV” website titled “New tension in Armenia: Abortion ban.” Written by Turkish journalist Okay Deprem, who has previously spread false information about Armenia and reportedly has ties to Russia. The same content also briefly appeared on the Chinese state-owned CGTN Türk media outlet before being removed.
This is not Deprem’s first participation in spreading falsehoods about Armenia. He has previously circulated fabricated stories claiming Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan planned to cede territory to Azerbaijan, approve dozens of mosque constructions at Turkish President Erdoğan’s request, and authorize LGBTQ parades.
The false abortion ban story is part of a broader pattern of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) targeting Armenia, which has intensified since Pashinyan’s government began distancing itself from Russia following the 2020 war over Nagorno-Karabakh. Since early 2025, Armenia has experienced a sharp increase in foreign-language fake “scandalous exposés” presented as reporting from reputable international media outlets.
French agency VIGINUM and other international investigators have linked these operations to Russia, noting similar campaigns targeting Ukraine, Moldova, France, and Germany – countries seeking to reduce Russian influence or strengthen ties with Western institutions.
Previous disinformation campaigns against Pashinyan have included fabricated accusations about secret biolaboratories, luxury properties abroad, and involvement in sex trafficking. These efforts have escalated as Armenia pursues closer relations with the European Union and United States while tensions with Russia grow over Moscow’s perceived failure to protect Armenia during conflicts with Azerbaijan.
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9 Comments
Fake news and misinformation are a growing threat, especially when leveraging sophisticated AI technology. I’m glad the Armenian government has swiftly denied these fabricated claims about an abortion ban. It’s critical that media outlets and the public remain vigilant in verifying information, particularly on sensitive political issues.
Exactly, maintaining a healthy skepticism and fact-checking claims is so important these days. The use of AI to create convincing yet false content is truly worrying and requires a robust response to protect the integrity of public discourse.
This is a prime example of the kind of complex, coordinated disinformation campaigns we’re seeing more of. The use of AI-generated video to spread misinformation is particularly insidious. I hope the authorities can effectively counter this and educate people on the dangers of such manipulative tactics.
Yes, the ability to create highly realistic yet completely fabricated video content is a serious concern. We need stronger safeguards and public awareness to combat the rise of these deceptive practices, which can have severe consequences for democratic discourse.
Wow, this is a concerning case of coordinated disinformation using advanced AI tools. It’s troubling to see how easily manipulated video content can be spread online to sow confusion and mistrust. I hope the authorities can effectively counter this campaign and educate the public about the dangers of such deceptive tactics.
The use of AI-generated video to spread disinformation is deeply troubling. It’s crucial that media outlets and the public remain vigilant in fact-checking claims, particularly on sensitive political issues. I hope the authorities can effectively counter this coordinated campaign and educate people about these deceptive tactics.
The ability to create convincing yet completely fabricated video content using AI is a major challenge for media and the public. I’m glad the Armenian government has swiftly refuted these false claims, but the proliferation of such deceptive practices is deeply worrying. Maintaining a critical eye and verifying information is crucial to preserving informed discourse.
Fake news and disinformation campaigns, especially those leveraging AI, are a major threat to informed public discourse. I’m glad the Armenian government has swiftly refuted these false claims about an abortion ban. Maintaining a critical eye and verifying information is crucial in these challenging times.
This case highlights the growing sophistication of disinformation campaigns that exploit AI technology. I’m concerned about the potential impact of such manipulative tactics on public trust and democratic processes. Robust responses and public awareness are essential to combat the spread of fake news and protect the integrity of information.