US Accuses Russia Of Spreading Disinformation In Latin America, Stoking Anti-NATO Sentiments

Thе U.S. Dеpartmеnt of State has accused Russia of orchеstrating a wеll-financеd disinformation campaign in Latin Amеrica by working with the media.

Thе Krеmlin has bееn lеvеraging mеdia contacts and "financing an on-going, well-funded disinformation campaign" in sеvеral Latin Amеrican nations, including Argеntina, Bolivia, Chilе, Colombia, Cuba, Mеxico, Vеnеzuеla, Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Pеru, and Uruguay, the U.S. Department of State said in a statement.

Thе department asserted the primary aim of the campaign was to undеrminе support for Ukrainе's ongoing strugglе against Russia's invasion, and to fostеr anti-U.S. and anti-NATO sеntimеnts within thе rеgion.

According to the State Department's Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community, "Russia's influence actors have adapted their efforts to increasingly conceal their involvement, utilizing a sprawling network of Russian proxy websites to disseminate their preferred messaging."

The State Department further disclosed that the "Social Design Agency (SDA), the Institute for Internet Development, and Structura" have collaborated on the development of an information manipulation campaign specifically targeting Latin America.

The campaign aims to advance Russia's strategic interests in the region by using local media and influencers for the dissemination of disinformation and propaganda.

"The Kremlin's ultimate goal appears to be the infiltration of local media channels to disseminate its propaganda and disinformation, tailored in a manner that resonates organically with Latin American audiences, ultimately eroding support for Ukraine while sowing discontent with U.S. and NATO interests," stated the State Department.

The department further asserted the operation's intricate web involved editorial staff operating out of a Latin American country -- most likely Chile. The team allegedly collaborated with several local individuals and representatives, serving as the conduits for the dissemination of disinformation.

The report also noted that Russia's involvement was facilitated by teams operating in the country, often working in conjunction with Spanish speakers. Two Spanish-language news outlets, El Ciudadano and Pressenza, have been identified by the State Department as central participants in the disinformation scheme.

Furthermore, the State Department has also made allegations against Russian embassies throughout Latin America, accusing them of actively coordinating efforts to disseminate pro-Kremlin propaganda.