Russia-Linked Disinformation Campaign Targets German Chancellor Merz

• •A fake resignation video of Chancellor Merz was attributed to a Russia-linked group.
• •The video misused the branding of established German media to spread disinformation.
• •Storm 1516, linked to Russian military intelligence, is suspected of orchestrating the campaign.

German security services have identified a Russia-linked group as the source of a fake video claiming that Chancellor Friedrich Merz plans to resign due to poor poll ratings. The video, which falsely uses branding from Deutsche Welle and Handelsblatt, was labeled a complete fabrication by both media organizations. Merz's office described the claims as 'completely invented' and aimed at causing confusion. The disinformation operation is believed to be linked to Storm 1516, a group associated with Russian military intelligence, which has previously conducted similar campaigns. The video inaccurately mentioned a nonexistent federal election in September, showcasing a common tactic of presenting false information as credible news. German authorities have previously accused Moscow of orchestrating disinformation efforts to undermine support for Ukraine. The incident highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and the manipulation of information in political contexts.