EPISODE · Jun 27, 2026 · 30 MIN
The Bulgarian Elections with Sopo Gelava
from The Active Measures Newsletter Podcast · host The Pell Center at Salve Regina University
We started noticing it in 2024: an inside-outside game in which American political actors seed divisive issues that are then exploited from abroad. But there are also internationally fueled narratives that often spur domestic voices. We've described it as a “dialogue” between actors foreign and domestic. But the phenomenon is not just happening in the United States, and Sopo Gelava argues persuasively in an assessment of Russian efforts in Bulgaria’s recent election, that the pattern underscores the futility of international and national frameworks for fighting disinformation based on a now-outdated distinction between disinformation with either domestic or international origins. In addition, hosts Jim Ludes and Mark Jacobson discuss reporting on Russia stoking anti-EU sentiments and the Kremlin’s efforts to distort Western chatbots and wiki-pages.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What this episode covers
Disinformation campaigns are a familiar tactic used by the Kremlin. The goal of these campaigns is to weaken European unity. Fake content is often disguised as credible news sources. Strategic patterns in disinformation can be identified over time. The use of bots to spread misinformation is increasing. Leaked documents reveal intentional plans by Russia to shape narratives. Social media plays a crucial role in disseminating false information. Understanding these tactics is essential for countering them. The Bulgarian election serves as a case study for these tactics. Future implications of disinformation strategies are concerning.
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The Bulgarian Elections with Sopo Gelava
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