Russia's main influence campaigns run via Telegram, TikTok, Viber – expert

Today, the key platforms for spreading disinformation and harmful information operations are Telegram, TikTok, and Viber. In particular, Telegram requires restrictions in Ukraine,

Liubov Tsybulska, a strategic communications expert and director of the NGO Join Ukraine, said this in an interview with Ukrinform.

"Today, the main platforms for spreading disinformation and harmful influence campaigns are Telegram, TikTok, and Viber. Through them, the primary influence campaigns are carried out," she said.

Tsybulska noted that Russia's global objectives remain unchanged: the destruction of Ukrainian identity and statehood. At the same time, the tools are constantly evolving with technological developments.

"Every time we counter Russian propaganda, they find new ways to spread it. For example, in 2014, when we banned their channels, they launched Ukrainian channels that transmitted Russian narratives. These were [Viktor] Medvedchuk's channels. When we blocked VKontakte, Telegram appeared. This struggle is ongoing: we ban something, and they find ways around it," she said.

The expert stressed that Telegram in Ukraine needs to be restricted, as it is a tool of Russian influence.

"I am convinced that Telegram should be limited because it is an instrument of the enemy. At the same time, Ukrainian society considers it a primary source of information, which is a serious concern because it is not a media outlet. Often, it is unclear who is behind the information. Anonymous channels bear no responsibility for their posts, making it easy to manipulate public perception. Moreover, Telegram does not use end-to-end encryption by default, so your information is not fully protected," Tsybulska said.

She added that Telegram is also used for mass recruitment of teenagers and adult civilians for committing crimes against national security.

"Teenagers are being recruited in large numbers. What we see in the news is just the tip of the iceberg. This is a massive phenomenon. It also affects adult civilians. Recruitment for assassinations of political figures or civic activists is happening via Telegram," she said.