Russian Disinformation: Security Agencies Observe Influence Attempts Targeting State Elections in September

At the center of the observation, according to the security agencies, are the state elections in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern as well as additional votes scheduled for this autumn. At the same time, the agencies warn that the disinformation strategy could be used as preparation for the 2025 Bundestag election. They say they are observing a recurring pattern from last year's Bundestag election, in which similar methods were employed.

Domestic Intelligence Agency Warns of a Long-Term Strategy

The threat posed by foreign interference is viewed by German security agencies as part of a longer-term campaign. In their assessment, Russia is attempting to amplify existing social conflicts in Germany and to weaken trust in state institutions. This also includes efforts to favor parties such as the AfD and the Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht through algorithmic reach.

The domestic intelligence agencies say they are working closely with the state offices to identify suspicious networks. Platforms such as major social networks have been asked to review corresponding content and to remove it where appropriate. At the same time, investigations are underway against the operators of individual channels from which coordinated false reports have been disseminated.

Measures by the Security Agencies

German society is, in the agencies' assessment, being polarized by the campaigns. Through the targeted spread of false information about alleged scandals involving local politicians, trust in democratic processes as a whole is to be undermined. The agencies see this as a danger to the state's capacity to act and to the integrity of the upcoming elections.

Preparations for the Autumn Elections

Election authorities nationwide are preparing to deal with disinformation. Planned measures include training for poll workers, faster fact-checks, and a central point of contact for reports of suspicious content. The agencies are also calling on the public to critically review information from dubious sources and to report suspicious posts.

The security agencies emphasize that clarifying such incidents takes time and that not every false report can be clearly attributed to a state actor. Nevertheless, there are clear indicators pointing to an orchestrated campaign. They will continue to monitor developments until the autumn elections and inform the public as needed.