EU exposes Kremlin’s media warfare in the Balkans

The European Union, in its third report on Foreign Information Manipulation and Threats of Intervention, has warned of the intensification of influence operations by Russia, including the launch of "Russia Today Balkans" from Serbia during 2024.

According to the European External Action Service (EEAS), 'Russia Today' and 'Sputnik' are platforms that are part of a Russian state-controlled ecosystem, which, under the guise of legitimate journalism, spread propaganda and disinformation on a global scale, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

Report highlights that Russia remains the most active and systematic actor in using information manipulation as a strategic instrument to hinder Western democracies and destabilize the EU.

Its activities include coordinated disinformation operations supported by the Russian state and Russian intelligence services, using a wide network of controlled channels – such as Sputnik and Russia Today, as well as local sites linked to pro-Kremlin interests.

"Russia Today, founded in 2005, represents a key tool of the Kremlin for conducting broad influence operations. The latest expansion through 'Russia Today Balkans', operating from Serbia, clearly demonstrates the intention to further destabilize the Western Balkans region, including by distorting the narrative around the EU enlargement process," the report states.

The EU warns that significant resources are being invested to hinder European policies in the region, attempting to weaken citizens' trust in European integration, as well as to damage the democratic capacities of local institutions.