BERLIN: German lawmakers and anti-Kremlin groups allege Russian efforts to amplify regional tensions, undermine mainstream parties, and disseminate false information to benefit the Alternative for Germany (AfD) ahead of September regional elections.
In Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the AfD leads polls as it seeks to become Germany’s first far-right regional government since 1945, posing a threat to Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition.
Misinformation on X, TikTok, and Bluesky has surged, with the AfD accused of passively receiving_content from Moscow, which denies responsibility, framing itself as a target of “political” misinformation.
Anti-Kremlin activists, including Antibot4Navalny, identified two disinformation campaigns in June and July. The first involved fake media outlets like AFP promoting east-west divides, while the second spread baseless allegations against politicians, citing ARD and Deutsche Welle. Both campaigns were later blocked.
Antibot4Navalny links the operations to Matryoshka, a suspected Kremlin tool, which has historically spread fake content. While no direct evidence exists, the activist asserts, “There is no other plausible explanation.”
Government officials acknowledge disinformation as a persistent threat but refrain from naming specifics. The ruling coalition stresses hybrid warfare tactics by Russia, combining disinformation with espionage.
España’s spy agency noted similarities to Matryoshka’s methods. Meanwhile, the AfD defends its stance, advocating for reduced Ukraine spending and energy cooperation with Russia, which supporters argue aligns with German economic interests.
– ‘Cognitive war’ –
Critics argue Russia is waging a “cognitive war” to sow fear and division, leveraging Germany’s focus on Ukraine aid and military modernization. The AfD, dubbed Putin’s official voice in Germany, is accused of exploiting these narratives.
AfD leaders in Saxony-Anhalt reject allegations, emphasizing their focus on economic policies. Supporters claim the party advocates for pragmatic solutions, such as cheaper Russian energy imports, to address Germany’s economic struggles.
Public opinion remains divided, with some citizens questioning the government’s handling of disinformation fears.