Ukraine Calls for Closure of Russian Cultural Centers to Combat Disinformation

• •Ukraine calls for global shutdown of Russian cultural centers due to disinformation threats.
• •Russian Houses operate in at least seven European countries and beyond, posing security risks.
• •Germany has closed its Russian House amid concerns over hybrid influence and propaganda.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has urged global governments to shut down Russian cultural centers, known as 'Russian Houses', citing their role in disinformation, political destabilization, and espionage. These centers, part of the Rossotrudnichestvo network, continue to operate in at least seven European countries and have a broader presence in Africa, Asia, and South America. Sybiha highlighted the cognitive domain of modern warfare, asserting that Russia is engaged in a global battle for influence. He commended Germany for its recent closure of the Russian House in Berlin, while noting that many centers remain active and integrated into Russian diplomatic structures. Ukraine has provided formal documentation to foreign ministries outlining the national security threats posed by these centers and is advocating for their closure worldwide.