@LaJoieSecurity Threat Blog

Russian Disinformation Targets Polish Elections

 

 

In a development that underscores the persistent hybrid warfare tactics employed by Russia, Poland has identified a Russian group allegedly working to disrupt its upcoming presidential elections. With the elections scheduled for mid-May 2025, these activities reveal a concerning escalation in disinformation and influence operations aimed at destabilizing one of Europe’s staunchest allies of Ukraine.

 

What’s Happening?

Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Krzysztof Gawkowski, disclosed that a Russian group linked to military intelligence is orchestrating efforts to spread disinformation, recruit agents, and incite political instability ahead of the elections. This follows a pattern seen in neighboring Romania, where similar interference was tied to election annulment attempts.

 

Poland’s role as a key logistical hub for Ukraine’s defense makes it a prime target for espionage and sabotage. Russian-backed actors have reportedly increased their focus on influencing public opinion and undermining the democratic process, particularly in nations providing direct support to Ukraine.

 

The Russian embassy in Warsaw has yet to comment on these allegations, but the implications are clear: elections are not just political contests—they’ve become digital battlegrounds.

 

Why It Matters

This incident isn’t an isolated case—it’s part of a broader strategy of using cyber and disinformation tools to influence political landscapes and sow division. The implications are far-reaching:

  • Undermining Democracy: By targeting elections, disinformation campaigns aim to erode trust in democratic institutions.
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Poland’s support for Ukraine makes it a symbolic and strategic target for Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics.
  • Broader EU Security Risks: Interference in Poland could signal similar strategies aimed at other EU nations, raising the stakes for European unity.

 

Leadership Takeaways

  • Secure Electoral Processes: Governments must ensure robust cybersecurity measures around voter registration systems, election software, and online platforms.
  • Combat Disinformation: Public awareness campaigns and rapid-response teams are essential for countering false narratives before they take root.
  • Strengthen Cross-Border Collaboration: Poland’s neighbors and allies should work together to share intelligence and coordinate responses to hybrid threats.

 

Secure the Advantage

  • Adopt Threat Hunting Strategies: Proactively identify and neutralize digital threats aimed at election interference.
  • Bolster Social Media Monitoring: Track disinformation campaigns on platforms to counteract influence operations in real-time.
  • Enhance Public Resilience: Equip the public with tools and education to recognize and resist manipulation efforts.

 

 

 

Read More

  • Reuters. (2025). Poland Identifies Russian Group Allegedly Aiming to Sway Elections. Retrieved from Reuters.
  • AP News. (2025). Election Security in the Face of Disinformation: Lessons from Poland.
  • The Guardian. (2025). How Hybrid Warfare is Targeting Democracy in Eastern Europe.

 

The targeting of Polish elections highlights the adaptability and persistence of Russian hybrid warfare strategies. As we face a future where cyber and political arenas are increasingly intertwined, it’s crucial to invest in defenses that protect not just systems, but also the democratic ideals they support.