International Relations
Russia steps up disinformation campaign exploiting Poland-Ukraine tensions, officials say
What happened
Russia has intensified a disinformation campaign targeting Poland and Ukraine, exploiting their diplomatic tensions to spread false narratives and deepen divisions, according to officials and cybersecurity experts.
Key facts
Russian disinformation campaigns targeting Poland and Ukraine have increased since mid-2026, coinciding with escalating diplomatic tensions.
Polish cybersecurity officials reported a significant rise in pro-Russian disinformation narratives on social media platforms during mid-2026.
Ukrainian intelligence agencies identified multiple Russian-linked Telegram channels spreading false claims about Poland’s alleged betrayal of Ukraine.
The European Union’s East StratCom Task Force confirmed detecting Russian-originated disinformation targeting Polish-Ukrainian relations in July 2026.
Analysts noted that Russian state media outlets such as RT and Sputnik have amplified narratives questioning Poland’s commitment to Ukraine.
Context
- Poland and Ukraine have been key allies in supporting Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, providing military, humanitarian, and political backing.
- Tensions between the two countries emerged in 2023 over trade restrictions, historical disputes, and Poland’s reduced military aid to Ukraine.
- Russia has a long history of using disinformation to sow discord among European nations and weaken NATO cohesion.