Russia Targets France with Information Warfare, Warns French Military Chief
General Burkhard warns that Russia has made France a primary target for information warfare amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
Key Points
- • Russia identified France as a primary target for information warfare, according to General Burkhard.
- • Russian disinformation campaigns are notably effective in Africa, impacting France's reputation.
- • Burkhard warns of a potential domino effect if France fails to counter Russian tactics effectively.
- • France's military resources remain limited despite increased funding, necessitating national awareness of threats.
In a press conference on July 11, General Thierry Burkhard, the Chief of Staff of the French Armed Forces, highlighted that Russia has identified France as its primary target for information warfare and a key adversary in Europe. He described Russia as a persistent and significant threat, particularly in light of heightened geopolitical tensions stemming from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
General Burkhard noted that Russia's aggressive information warfare tactics have had a substantial impact not only within France but also in other regions, specifically Africa. He pointed to incidents like the public burning of the French flag in Bangui, Central African Republic, as evidence of Russia's influence. Burkhard attributed Russia's focus on France to its support for Ukraine, stating that this support positions France alongside the UK as a crucial adversary in Europe.
Additionally, Burkhard warned of a potential domino effect if France struggles to effectively counteract these information campaigns. He characterized Russia's hybrid warfare tactics—encompassing disinformation, cyber attacks, and military maneuvers—as systematic and persistent, reflecting a broader aim to destabilize Europe and weaken NATO under President Vladimir Putin's directives.
Despite recent increases in military funding, Burkhard pointed out that France's military resources remain limited and emphasized the urgent need for national awareness and preparedness against the hybrid threats posed by Russia. He called for unity and recognition of the dangers that are reshaping the international order, underscoring that the current situation requires a lucid understanding of the country's evolving defense landscape.