Russian influence

Zelenskyy Plans Post-Ceasefire Elections: A Controversial Move

President Zelenskyy plans to run for reelection as early as this summer, potentially as soon as July, following a ceasefire anticipated by April’s end. This decision, spurred by a recent shift in political calculations, involves preparations for an election after the lifting of martial law in May. While opponents like Poroshenko predict a later election date, a July vote could strategically benefit Zelenskyy by limiting opposition campaigning. However, a rushed election risks exacerbating tensions within Ukraine and presents potential vulnerabilities to Russian influence.

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Right-wing influencers were duped to work for covert Russian influence operation, US says

Right-wing influencers were duped to work for a covert Russian influence operation, US says. The term “duped” doesn’t quite capture the reality of the situation. These influencers willingly went along, knowing full well who was funding their efforts and why. The idea that they were innocently taken advantage of seems far-fetched when considering the money and incentives involved.

I find it perplexing how some individuals were able to see through the facade from the very beginning, while others fell prey to manipulation. Back in 2016, when the signs were already apparent to me, I warned a friend to look into the dollar/ruble exchange rate.… Continue reading

Media start-up from Benny Johnson, Tim Pool, and Dave Rubin was secret Russian influence campaign, indictment alleges

The recent news about Benny Johnson, Tim Pool, and Dave Rubin being involved in a secret Russian influence campaign has left me utterly dumbfounded. The implications of this revelation are far-reaching and put into question the integrity of the entire right-wing media sphere. It’s alarming to think that individuals we may have once trusted for information and commentary could be unwittingly aiding a foreign power in undermining our democracy.

The fact that these influential figures were potentially used as pawns in a larger scheme orchestrated by Russia is a sobering reminder of the dangers of disinformation and hybrid warfare. The mention of AI bot farms and the sophistication of language models only heightens my concern about the evolving landscape of information warfare and propaganda.… Continue reading

Georgia goes ‘North Korea’ with bombshell plan to ban main opposition parties

It’s no secret that Georgia has had a tumultuous history, particularly with regards to its relations with Russia. The 2008 invasion by Russia was a stark reminder of the precarious position Georgia finds itself in geopolitically. Fast forward to today, and the recent bombshell plan to ban main opposition parties has sparked outrage and concern among many.

The move to ban opposition parties has raised serious questions about the future of democracy in Georgia. By following in the footsteps of authoritarian regimes like North Korea, the government is effectively silencing dissent and consolidating power in a worrying manner. The implications of such a decision are far-reaching and could have detrimental effects on the country as a whole.… Continue reading