AI amplifies foreign information interference in Europe

European institutions and experts are warning of the increasing threat posed by foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) against democratic processes. During a discussion at the Europa Experience David Sassoli in Rome, officials highlighted how artificial intelligence is being used to create credible fake content and accelerate the spread of disinformation.

Data from the European External Action Service (EEAS), cited in the FIMI Defenders for Election Integrity (FDEI) project report, revealed that 540 episodes of foreign information manipulation were documented in 2025. These incidents involved approximately 10,500 channels and 43,000 pieces of content. Of these documented episodes, 29% were attributed to Russia and 6% to China, while the remaining 65% lacked certain state attribution despite showing indicators of coordination with Russian or Chinese infrastructures.

The rise of AI-driven tools presents a significant challenge for countries like Italy as they prepare for future political cycles, as these sophisticated digital infrastructures allow for permanent, transnational manipulation of public debate.