Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.2252/cmr202502112
Disinformation as Strategy: Russian Electoral Interference in the EU and US
Tonći Prodan
; University of Split (Split, Hrvatska)
Marija Gombar
orcid.org/0009-0000-8621-4007
; General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia (Zagreb, Croatia)
Abstract
This article explores the strategic role of Russian disinformation in undermining electoral integrity
in the EU and the US. Focusing on the 2016 and 2020 US elections, Brexit, and the 2017
French elections, the paper identifies core disinformation tactics, including bots, targeted
content, and information leaks. Using case studies and content analysis, the study reveals
how these campaigns disrupted specific elections and eroded long-term public trust. The
findings show that current responses, such as the EU’s Action Plan Against Disinformation,
the DSA, and NATO StratCom, remain insufficient. Key obstacles include weak coordination,
underdeveloped detection systems, and superficial media literacy initiatives. The article advocates
for a paradigm shift from reactive to preventive strategy, rooted in ethical communication,
public resilience, and cross-sectoral collaboration. Framed within the logic of hybrid
threats and algorithmic manipulation, the paper underscores the urgency of a comprehensive,
future-facing defence against information warfare.
Keywords
algorithmic manipulation; disinformation; electoral integrity; hybrid threats; public trust; strategic communication
Hrčak ID:
342072
URI
Publication date:
22.12.2025.
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