Anti-migrant disinformation grows in Ukraine: experts suspect Kremlin influence

Ukraine is facing a surge in disinformation campaigns targeting migrants, with local experts pointing to potential Russian influence. These campaigns often use manipulated content to foster anti-immigrant sentiment and sow discord.

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The video clips, showing men with masks covering their faces and displaying a Nazi salute, were shared in May by the radical far-right organization "White Sun" operating in Ukraine.

One example involves a video circulating from a protest in Kyiv's Maidan Square. The footage, which showed individuals displaying Nazi symbols during a demonstration against foreign workers, was shared with captions suggesting a resurgence of Nazism in Ukraine. However, analysis reveals this was a manipulation; the protest was organized by radical far-right groups, and their actions do not represent the broader Ukrainian population or government stance.

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The protest organizers demanded that businesses stop bringing foreign migrants into the country and instead ensure better working conditions for locals.

Ukrainian law prohibits the production and public display of Nazi symbols. The protest itself featured slogans like "Ukraine for Ukrainians" and "White Ukraine," reflecting the views of a small, radical segment of society. Experts suggest that such content is amplified by social media accounts known for spreading Kremlin narratives, aiming to create a false impression of widespread xenophobia.

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The Kremlin narratives spreading social media accounts quickly disseminated the same footage with captions like "❗️🇺🇦 March of Nazis, who, they say, are not there (🤣), in Kyiv!" and "Kyiv. Probably coincidences 🙄."

These disinformation efforts are seen as part of a broader strategy by Russia to destabilize Ukraine by exacerbating internal divisions and polarization. Official statistics indicate that the number of registered immigrants in Ukraine has remained relatively stable, and the issuance of new work permits has significantly decreased since the start of the 2022 conflict. The rise in anti-immigrant rhetoric appears to be fueled by manufactured fear rather than actual demographic shifts.

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Thus, Ukraine is not actually facing increased immigration. Only the fears have increased.