while Russian and Chinese operations differ in structure and emphasis, their efforts increasingly converge in both tactics and objectives. While some experts note the cooperation between these two actors has been largely opportunistic, the EEAS report’s network analysis reveals deeper functional convergence. Russian and Chinese FIMI ecosystems increasingly synchronise narratives, especially around major geopolitical events, such as the 1000-day mark of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine – when both states blamed NATO and the West for escalating the conflict. Their media outlets and diplomatic accounts regularly amplify each other’s content, forming digital bridges that help spread anti-Western narratives across regions like Africa, Latin America and the Balkans.
Both nations have also aligned their strategies in deploying disinformation campaigns intended to fracture social cohesion and undermine democratic institutions. China’s expansive “Spamouflage” campaign, known for impersonating human rights organisations to spread anti-Western narratives, parallels Russia’s extensive use of state-sponsored media and digital platforms to amplify divisive content and discredit Western foreign policies.
Emphasis mine.
The entire report makes an illuminating read. It includes case studies on Russian campaigns in Moldova and Africa and one operation originating from China, illustrating how FIMI networks tailor their strategies to geopolitical shifts and local contexts.
The most recent European External Action Service (EEAS) Report on Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) Threats, published in May 2025, says that
Emphasis mine.
The entire report makes an illuminating read. It includes case studies on Russian campaigns in Moldova and Africa and one operation originating from China, illustrating how FIMI networks tailor their strategies to geopolitical shifts and local contexts.
Download: 3rd EEAS Report on Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference Threats (pdf)
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