The European union is trying to adapt formulas to counter and combat the Kremlin’s growing hybrid warfare. In a significant move and after a wave of Russian operations in several member states, foreign ministers will this Monday present the first Union sanctions for destabilization and disinformation activities, both inside and outside the community club . The list, to which EL PAÍS had access, includes more than fifteen names and several organizations that will be banned from traveling to the EU and whose assets on EU territory will be frozen. Among them are spies from the Russian military intelligence (GRU) and some of its special units, recruiters for sabotage or agents infiltrated into Germany to acquire data in the German parliament and German secret services and “undermine the democratic political process”.
The leaders of European diplomacy have yet to approve this list of those sanctioned at a meeting to be held in Brussels on Monday, less than a week after the Twenty-Seven gave the green light to the fifteenth package of sanctions against Russia and against people and entities of the Kremlin orbit over large-scale war against Ukraine. The new regime – which also aims to prosecute and punish electoral interference operations – was approved on 8 October, on the proposal of the then High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, but until now no action had been taken name.
Now they are trying to impose restrictions, for example, on those responsible for the disinformation campaign. Doppelgängerwhich launched dozens of websites in various languages that appeared to be news outlets and even copied them from several existing and reliable sites, to launch fake news from there.
A moldovan businessman who launched a destabilization campaign in France including spraying star of David graffiti on several streets in the contry has also come under the sanctions spotlight in the context of Hamas attacks on Israel on September 7 October 2023 and which, according to the document, was intended to “foment tensions in French society”.
Following appeals from various European secret services,the EU has also included in the list of sanctions for hybrid warfare those responsible for the sabotage at the Museum of Occupation in Riga (Latvia),where Molotov cocktails were thrown last February,and the GRU spies specialized in recruiting people (sometimes paid civilians or provocateurs) for “sabotage activities in the Union and other activities aimed at creating tensions between NATO countries,” the document states.
The list does not only include hybrid warfare operations in the EU; there are also several cases linked to sabotage campaigns in Ukraine and in various African countries, where Russia invests millions of euros and huge resources in destabilization operations and to damage Europe’s reputation. Such as the campaign launched to spread conspiracy theories such as the alleged use of Africa for biological warfare experiments and illicit trials of various drugs by pharmaceutical companies. Those responsible are also included in the new sanctions list.
What are the main objectives of the European Union’s sanctions against Russian hybrid warfare?
Interview: European Union‘s Sanctions Against Russian Hybrid Warfare – A Conversation with Dr. Elena Vostokova
Editor, Time.news: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Vostokova, an expert in international relations and hybrid warfare strategies. With the EU’s recent move to impose sanctions against Russian operations undermining member states, we will delve into the implications, insights, and the broader context of these developments.
Q: Dr. Vostokova, can you explain the context behind the EU’s decision to impose sanctions on individuals and organizations linked to Russia’s hybrid warfare?
Dr. Vostokova: Certainly.The European Union is responding to a significant uptick in destabilization and disinformation campaigns orchestrated by the Kremlin. This includes operations aimed at undermining democratic processes within EU member states. The sanctions represent a collective effort to impose consequences on those involved in these hybrid warfare tactics, including intelligence operatives and organizations that have engaged in electoral interference and misinformation.
Q: Who are some of the key individuals and organizations included in the recent sanctions list?
Dr. Vostokova: The sanctions list includes over fifteen individuals,notably Russian military intelligence (GRU) operatives,infiltrators in Germany’s political system,and even a Moldovan businessman linked to divisive acts in France. This expansive approach reflects the EU’s attempt to address not only direct threats but also anyone who contributes to the Kremlin’s destabilizing strategies across Europe and beyond.
Q: What do these new sanctions aim to achieve in terms of combating disinformation?
Dr. Vostokova: The sanctions target those responsible for orchestrating widespread disinformation campaigns, like the “Doppelgänger” initiative, which created fake news websites designed to mislead citizens in various EU languages. By freezing assets and limiting travel, the EU hopes to deter future operations and send a clear message that such tactics will not be tolerated.
Q: how do these sanctions connect with the broader context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine?
Dr. Vostokova: The sanctions are part of a much larger package of measures against Russia, which has been engaged in aggression towards Ukraine. The EU’s commitment to support Ukraine through various sanctions highlights solidarity with Ukraine and an intention to weaken Russia’s influence in Europe. It’s not just about national security; it’s also about protecting democratic integrity across the continent.
Q: In your opinion, what implications do these sanctions have for EU member states and their security?
Dr.Vostokova: These sanctions are a critical step towards building a united front against hybrid threats. They empower member states to fortify their defenses against disinformation and espionage.Though, they also remind us of the need for vigilance in safeguarding democratic processes and the resilience required from both governments and civil societies to counteract these threats effectively.
Q: Can you provide any practical advice for individuals and organizations on how to recognize and combat disinformation?
Dr. Vostokova: Absolutely. Awareness is crucial. Individuals should critically assess the sources of details they consume. Checking the credibility of news outlets and being aware of behavioral patterns—like emotional manipulation in messaging—can help. Organizations can foster media literacy and encourage open dialogues about the impact of disinformation within their communities.
Q: how can the EU further enhance it’s strategy against hybrid warfare moving forward?
Dr. Vostokova: The EU can increase collaboration among member states, sharing intelligence more effectively to preemptively address threats. Additionally, investing in technology and public awareness campaigns to counteract misinformation will be key. Establishing clear protocols for rapid responses to hybrid threats will further strengthen the EU’s overall resilience to such challenges.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you, Dr. vostokova, for your invaluable insights into the EU’s evolving strategy against hybrid warfare and disinformation. Your expertise sheds light on the complexities of this vital issue.