Sven Schulze targeted by Russian disinformation campaign

A sophisticated Russian disinformation campaign is targeting the upcoming state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The campaign specifically targets CDU candidate and Minister President Sven Schulze using fabricated content.

According to reports, the operation utilizes a fake clone of the Süddeutsche Zeitung website to publish invented stories and distributes deepfake videos on social media platforms like X. These materials contain false allegations regarding Schulze's personal life and alleged criminal activities.

Security experts and the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD) have linked these activities to the disinformation network known as ‘Storm-1516’, which is associated with Russia. Analysts note a shift in tactics, as the campaign is now targeting regional political candidates rather than focusing solely on federal-level politicians. The disinformation appears designed to undermine parties competing with the AfD.