Pro-Kremlin Propaganda Network Infiltrates Hundreds of English-Language Websites
London – A sophisticated, coordinated network of websites masquerading as self-reliant news sources – dubbed “Pravda” by the Institute for Strategic dialog (ISD) – has successfully placed pro-Kremlin content on hundreds of English-language websites globally, raising concerns about the spread of Russian disinformation. The network’s reach extends beyond fringe sites, appearing on both reputable news platforms and across social media.
The ISD’s examination revealed the network has “saturated the internet ecosystem enough to get in front of real people who are doing research on Russia-related issues.” Forty percent of the content originating from the Pravda network and picked up by mainstream websites focused on Russia’s war in Ukraine. However, a significant portion addressed other topics, including US domestic policy and figures like Elon Musk, broadening its influence.
“This happened to a lot of different reputable sources and a lot less reputable sources too, like people from across the ideological spectrum. It really touched every part of the web that we could find,” stated ISD researcher John Bodnar.
Nina Jankowicz, a disinformation expert, cautioned that the network’s growing legitimacy could allow it to dominate coverage of Ukraine as media attention shifts. “There’s a bit less news about Ukraine. And if they can get in there and fill that gap really soon, that means that the Russian viewpoint is the one that’s going to get out there quickly and be cited in large language models,” she warned.
The findings highlight a concerning trend of disinformation campaigns leveraging seemingly independent online sources to subtly shape narratives and possibly influence public opinion. The ISD’s report underscores the challenges in identifying and countering such sophisticated influence operations in the digital age.
