German elections face Russian disinformation and tactical voting push

A fact‑check confirmed that Russian disinformation campaigns are targeting Germany’s upcoming federal and state elections, seeking to influence public opinion and voter behaviour. At the same time, a grassroots initiative called “Taktisch Wählen” is mobilising young voters in Saxony‑Anhalt. The campaign urges voters to cast their second vote for the Social Democratic Party (SPD) or Alliance 90/The Greens, aiming to keep the far‑right Alternative for Germany (AfD) below the 5 % parliamentary threshold and block a potential AfD‑led government. Organisers use door‑to‑door canvassing and a coordinated Instagram media push to reach residents, arguing that a strategic vote for the SPD or Greens can prevent the AfD from gaining a majority in the state parliament.