Description: Researchers in cooperation with the Robert Bosch Foundation have identified more than 700 fake social media accounts that used AI – based pictures of Friedrich Merz to instigate large scale disinformation campaign using the X platform. The accounts published messages with anti – migration and anti – Ukraine sentiments ahead of the German elections scheduled for Sunday 23 Feb. Germany cybersecurity watchdog BSI has stated that most of the accounts also published pro – Russian posts aimed at discrediting Merz’ party and ramp up support for their direct political opponent, the far – right AfD. Although the campaign gained little to no traction, it represents intensified election meddling and interference in Germany’s internal political system.
Impact: Germany as one of Europe’s pivotal countries, faces crucial parliamentary elections in times of increased level of geopolitical upheaval. The country isn’t foreign to Russian hybrid threats as Russia would aim at discrediting all and every political entity whose goal is continued support for Ukraine. The controversial element is the sophisticated usage of AI – generated photos of Friedrich Merz through the X platform which is owned by Elon Musk who recently publicly supported the far – right AfD political party. With the latest US pivot towards reestablishing relations with Russia, US interference in the German elections isn’t out of the question, as the US would further aim to isolate Europe from continued involvement in the Ukraine question. Germany is at the proverbial do or die elections on Sunday as by extension Germans decide Europe’s path in future geopolitical posturing.