“The statement notes that RT and SDA use deceptive tactics aimed at using social and political issues to polarize and weaken societies.”, — write: www.radiosvoboda.org
“The G7 RRM Group takes any foreign information manipulation and interference very seriously. G7 RRM members will continue to shed light on these malicious activities, which may include, but are not limited to, state-sponsored hostile cyber activities, psychological and information operations, and covert influence,” the statement said.
The G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM) noted recent statements by the US, UK and Canada exposing the ongoing covert activities of Russian state media RT (formerly Russia Today) and the Social Design Agency (SDA).
“RT and SDA employ deceptive tactics aimed at using social and political issues to polarize and weaken societies, undermine and delegitimize elected governments, and promote the Kremlin’s malicious interests. This includes diverting attention from the committed atrocities and humanitarian crises caused by his aggressive war against Ukraine,” the association states.
Last October, Great Britain introduced new sanctions against Russia “for attempts to undermine and destabilize Ukraine and its democracy.” The restrictions targeted three disinformation agencies and their leaders. Among them is the Social Design Agency (SDA) and its founder Ilya Gambashidze.
Before that, the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US published an investigation report of almost 300 pages. It described what Russian companies are doing to spread fake news, inflame tension in American society, and attack American politicians who support Ukraine in its war against Russia.
The report names such companies as Social Design Agency (SDA), Structura National Technology (Structura) and ANO Dialog, which operate under the direction and control of the administration of the President of Russia, in particular, the First Deputy Chief of Staff of the President Serhiy Kiriyenko, through which the Kremlin tries to influence the Americans. in particular, on the results of voting in the American elections.