Officials identified fake websites and political ads in Moldova’s election and misleading videos targeting Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
The UK imposed sanctions on Russian media outlets and think-tanks and warned Western nations to counter hostile information campaigns.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper sanctioned Telegram channel Rybar, the Foundation for the Support and Protection of Compatriots Abroad, and Aleksandr Dugin’s Centre for Geopolitical Expertise.
She also targeted two China-based companies for large-scale cyberattacks against the UK and its allies.
Cooper Warns of Escalating Hybrid Threats
Cooper told the Foreign Office that Russia and other hostile states deploy hybrid threats to sabotage infrastructure and influence democracies.
She highlighted disinformation campaigns using AI-generated content and manipulated videos to erode Western support for Ukraine.
Officials cited Moldova’s election interference and fake Zelenskyy videos as recent examples of coordinated information attacks.
Cooper said the UK now actively defends itself against Russian information warfare.
Emphasising Global Cooperation and NATO Support
Cooper marked the 100th anniversary of the Locarno Treaties, which strengthened European peace after World War I.
She urged nations to maintain alliances amid US President Donald Trump’s disruptions and doubts about NATO commitments.
After meeting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Cooper confirmed Washington clearly reaffirmed America’s support for NATO.
