Officials exposed fake websites and political ads targeting Moldova’s election and spreading false videos about Ukrainian President Zelenskyy to weaken support.
The UK sanctioned Russian media outlets and think-tanks, warning Western nations to strengthen defences against hostile information operations.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper announced sanctions on the Telegram channel Rybar, the Foundation for the Support and Protection of the Rights of Compatriots Abroad, and Aleksandr Dugin’s Centre for Geopolitical Expertise.
Cooper also sanctioned two Chinese companies for broad cyberattacks against the UK and its allies.
Hybrid Threats Endanger Democracy and Security
Cooper told the Foreign Office that hostile states attack infrastructure, manipulate information, and interfere in democratic systems across the West.
She called out Russian information warfare and said the UK acts decisively to defend itself.
She described sabotage and disinformation campaigns, using AI-generated and manipulated videos to weaken Western backing for Ukraine’s resistance to Russia’s invasion.
Officials again cited Moldova election deception and fake Zelenskyy videos as examples of these campaigns.
Strengthening Alliances Amid Global Uncertainty
Cooper delivered her speech on the 100th anniversary of the Locarno Treaties, which once secured European peace after World War I.
She urged stronger international cooperation while warning that US President Trump’s actions have disrupted alliances and questioned America’s NATO commitment.
Cooper, after meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, said the discussions reaffirmed the United States’ firm support for NATO.
