Peter Pomerantsev discusses his new book "How to Win an Information War," which delves into the tactics used in propaganda, drawing from the experiences of Sefton Delmer during World War II. Pomerantsev emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological dynamics behind propaganda and the need to empower individuals to counteract conspiracy theories and disinformation. He also reflects on his experiences in Russia, where the government undermined the concept of truth to maintain power.
Germany's defense minister accuses Russia of waging an "information war" following the leak of a recording of a meeting of senior German military officials discussing weapons for Ukraine and a potential strike on a bridge in Crimea. The Kremlin denies accusations, demanding an explanation from Germany. The leaked call revealed discussions about providing Taurus cruise missiles to Kyiv, which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has rejected publicly. Germany is investigating the leak, while former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev suggests it indicates Berlin's preparation to fight Moscow.
Germany accuses Russia of waging an "information war" after a sensitive discussion among high-ranking Bundeswehr military officers concerning Ukraine was intercepted and released by Russia. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of seeking to sow disunity and create divisions within Germany, and called it part of an ongoing information war. The leaked audio recording has prompted calls for improved training on secure communication for senior military officers and has sparked controversy over Germany's stance on potentially sending Taurus missiles to Ukraine. Germany is investigating how the leak happened and considering potential disciplinary action against those involved.
Ukraine is using Russian propagandists, specifically milbloggers, to expose the truth about the situation facing Russian troops in the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense highlighted posts made by Russian milbloggers describing the difficulties faced by Moscow's troops, including lack of support, casualties, and equipment issues. These milbloggers have admitted to only reporting a small fraction of the information they receive, indicating that the situation may be even worse than what is being revealed. Intercepted phone calls and testimonies from Russian soldiers and civilians further paint a grim picture of the front lines.
Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), has built up an unusually public profile as the country's spy chief, wearing a pistol to interviews and discussing wartime intelligence. He believes that in today's world, a spy boss cannot stay in the shadows and that Ukraine is winning the information war against Russia. Budanov claims to have sources close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and has used his public platform to share information about Russian activities. Despite facing numerous assassination attempts, Budanov remains defiant and states that his agency will continue to eliminate enemies of Ukraine, drawing comparisons to Israel's Mossad.
