Expert: russian embassy in Chisinau leveraging Telegram to spread anti-Ukrainian propaganda

The russian Embassy in Chisinau has been actively utilizing its official Telegram channel to disseminate propaganda and disinformation, particularly targeting Ukraine. From January to September this year, 205 out of 529 posts—nearly 39%—carried content indicative of military and political propaganda with an anti-Ukrainian slant.

This analysis was presented by Mykhailo Panaiotov, a TV journalist and expert from the Research and Information Analysis Laboratory public organization, during an event at the Media Center Ukraine.

“The russian Embassy’s information campaigns in Chisinau are strategically designed to erode Ukraine’s image, stir anti-Western sentiment, and promote pro-russian views among Moldovans,” Panaiotov explained. “Through its official Telegram channel, the embassy functions as a sophisticated propaganda apparatus, portraying Ukraine as a dangerous neighbor while obstructing the development of friendly relations with Western nations. In this way, the embassy positions itself as an active participant in the information war, presenting russia as a defender against Western aggression and Ukrainian extremism.”

Panaiotov identified several key narratives employed by the russian Embassy to fuel anti-Ukrainian propaganda. These include portraying Ukraine as an aggressor and terrorist state, labeling it as a Nazi regime and a “Western puppet,” and promoting the idea of russia’s “humanitarian mission.” There is a consistent emphasis on the “historical unity” between russia and Ukraine, alongside criticism of Ukraine’s socio-economic conditions.

A central theme in the embassy’s messaging is anti-Western rhetoric, which serves as the foundation for its confrontation with Ukraine. 

Additionally, russia’s military strength and nuclear capabilities are frequently highlighted, particularly following the launch of the intercontinental ballistic missile. 

According to Panaiotov, the embassy’s Telegram channel in Moldova is a prominent tool for disseminating propaganda. However, it is not the only avenue. “The russian Embassy also heavily relies on the official Telegram channel of the russian Foreign Ministry, utilizing reposts and references to other related channels to amplify its messaging. The primary sources of anti-Ukrainian content are these reposts, which serve as conduits for spreading disinformation and manipulation,” he noted.

“The embassy’s efforts represent a coordinated strategy of disinformation, aimed at reinforcing anti-Western narratives and portraying russia as a protector with historical and moral legitimacy. The goal is to shape a reality in which Ukraine and its allies are viewed as aggressors, while russia is cast as a defender with a humanitarian mission,” Mykhailo Panaiotov concluded.

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news