Fact check: Inside Russia's campaign to undermine France's pro-Ukraine candidates

As the French presidential election approaches, Russian disinformation campaigns are targeting pro-Ukraine candidates to undermine their chances. Viginum has identified numerous false claims against candidates like Raphael Glucksmann, Edouard Philippe, and Gabriel Attal, alleging serious misconduct and mental instability. These operations, linked to Russian military intelligence, aim to create doubt about the legitimacy of the election outcome. The campaigns exploit domestic tensions and utilize advanced tactics, including generative AI, to spread misinformation. Experts warn that while the immediate impact may seem limited, the potential for amplification through various channels poses a significant risk for the upcoming election.