Revenco: Russia Tries to Disrupt the Referendum Through Media Manipulation

Ana Revenco, head of the Centre for Strategic Communications and Combating Disinformation, wrote about this in an article published in the EU Observer. According to her, these actions are aimed not only at influencing the outcome of the referendum, but also at weakening the social cohesion necessary for the long-term process of European integration, moldova1.md reported. “Kremlin’s strategy is to weaken social unity, which will make it difficult to implement the reforms needed for EU accession,” Revenco explained. In an article published in EU Observer, she emphasized that Moldova continues to be “a battlefield for Russian manipulation” and the referendum thus becomes not only a vote for European integration, but also a test of resistance and social cohesion in the face of external pressure. Revenco warned that Russian disinformation is not limited to fake news, but includes a wide range of tactics, from subtle manipulation of facts to propaganda of distrust in European values. This complex strategy, she said, is aimed at portraying Moldova as too vulnerable and unstable for EU accession. Revenco emphasized that Moldova is working closely with European partners to combat Russian influence and ensure a transparent and fair democratic process. An important element of these efforts is what Revenco calls a “wholesale” approach involving cooperation between the state, independent media and civil society to counter disinformation and build confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.