Cybernews reports Russia-linked Operation Matryoshka spreads fake videos targeting Saxony-Anhalt election
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Cybernews reports that Russia-linked disinformation network Operation Matryoshka is using fake videos and impersonated media brands to target Germany's Saxony-Anhalt state election on September 6. German security sources told Reuters the campaign was centrally directed from Russia, though no specific state institution has been confirmed. Berlin says it has created a new center to counter foreign interference and disinformation.
The Operation
Operation Matryoshka, named after the Russian nesting doll, distributes false narratives through layered accounts and websites, according to researcher group Antibot4Navalny. The campaign is focused on the September 6 state election in Saxony-Anhalt and was active during Germany's 2025 federal election. German security sources told Reuters the operation was centrally directed from Russia; no specific Russian state institution has been confirmed. Cybernews reviewed the findings, and four sources told Reuters about the central direction.
Fake Videos and False Allegations
The campaign imitates the design layouts of BBC and ARD to make fake videos, images, memes, and front pages appear credible, according to Deutsche Welle. One fake video targeted Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner with a murder allegation of a professional tennis player; no tennis player was reported missing. Left Party candidate Eric Stehr was falsely accused of murdering his grandmother and involvement in secret sex parties. Stehr told ZDF the smears claimed he murdered a model in two conflicting versions.
German Response
Germany has created a new center to counter foreign interference and disinformation, according to Cybernews. The move follows the campaign's activity during the 2025 federal election and its current focus on Saxony-Anhalt. Security sources told Reuters the operation was allegedly conducted through several companies and used social media to distribute videos carrying reputable media logos. Authorities have not conclusively linked Operation Matryoshka to a specific Russian government institution.
What's Next
German authorities are expected to monitor the campaign through the September 6 Saxony-Anhalt vote and beyond. It remains unclear whether Operation Matryoshka will escalate or whether investigators can trace the operation to a specific Russian state institution.
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Cybernews reports Russia-linked Operation Matryoshka spreads fake videos targeting Saxony-Anhalt election
