Mediaforum : Analytics, Forecasts, Information Management
The journal specializes on the study of political processes in society and international relations issues. The journal aims to cover the results of political science research, including the current issues of modern information society, political communications and media policy, on which focus the scientists from the Chernivtsi National University and other research institutions and universities in Ukraine and the European Union.
Чернівецький національний університет імені Юрія Федьковича
Review on: «Public Security», edited by Tomasz W.Grabowski, Ignatianum University in Cracow, 2023. 362 p.
Theoretical and Methodological Challenges of Using Game Theory in Modeling Political Processes
This article examines the primary theoretical and methodological challenges of using game theory to study political processes. Special attention is paid to the issues of multiple equilibria, increasing model “baroqueness,” and difficulties in empirical verification. The analysis also addresses the role of institutional factors and incomplete information, which complicate the formalization and prediction of political behavior. The paper juxtaposes the critical viewpoints of Pierre Allan and Cédric Dupont, Donald Green, and Ian Shapiro with the approaches of Catherine Langlois and Gerardo Munck, who propose new ways to integrate formal rigor with empirical relevance. Particular emphasis is placed on how bounded rationality, cultural factors, and institutional frameworks influence the modeling of both domestic and international political processes.
Іmplementation of European Standards in the Formation of Ukraine’s National Public Health Policy
The European integration of Ukraine has become the strategic reference point for determining the priority areas of state policy that require modernization. One of these areas is the policy of the Ukrainian state in the field of health care, which provides that in the process of adaptation to EU norms and standards, the organization of medical care is transformed through the practical mastery of the public health paradigm. This paradigm includes prevention, epidemiological surveillance, education, protection of human rights and inter-sectoral cooperation. In accordance with European practice, public health policy is an inter-sectoral policy that requires special attention to institutional and human resources. After signing the Association Agreement, Ukraine began the transformation of the public health system, deploying the process of legislative and institutional harmonization, which was based on the Law of Ukraine “On the Public Health System” adopted in 2022 and the created coordination structure, the Public Health Center. The main problems that must be solved by the Ukrainian state through the implementation of public health policy based on European principles in this area are as follows: transformation of the system of training specialists in the field of public health on an interdisciplinary basis (epidemiologists, data analysts, social workers); ensuring equal access to medical and preventive services, especially for vulnerable groups; resource and financial support for the public health institute; overcoming resistance from medical institutions focused on a clinic-centric model; development of the digital infrastructure of public health.
Educational Grant Programs as a Tool of Educational Diplomacy
The development of educational diplomacy is an increasingly relevant issue for Ukraine and many other countries worldwide. Educational diplomacy helps build strong partnerships with other nations and regions, facilitates scientific and educational exchange, addresses global, regional, and national challenges using scientific achievements, and informs foreign policy decisions based on evidence. For effective development, educational diplomacy requires substantial resources, including personnel, financial, and technical support. In this context, grant programs emerge as crucial tools for implementing projects, driving educational reforms, strengthening international cooperation, and fostering innovation in education, science, and the broader economic structure. The significance of educational grant programs becomes particularly evident during periods of war and crisis. The primary goal of this research is to analyze the development of educational grant programs in Ukraine, assess their impact on the professional growth of public servants and the quality of public administration, and examine how these programs strengthen international ties and contribute to Ukraine's global image. Since the Revolution of Dignity (2013–2014), Ukraine's public sector has transformed significantly, with new professionals entering the governmental landscape, many from business and economic sectors. This shift created a demand for educational diplomacy as a tool to enhance public service skills and international cooperation. Grant programs became effective instruments for building "soft power", enriching state officials with new knowledge and contributing to international partnerships. The research highlights the critical role of educational grant programs in advancing Ukraine's educational diplomacy. These programs not only enhance the skills of public servants but also strengthen Ukraine's international relations and contribute to its global reputation. By leveraging grant programs, Ukraine successfully integrates international best practices, fostering sustainable development and democratic governance, even amidst conflict and crisis.
Foreign Practices of Interaction between Government Bodies and Public Organizations: the Experience of the USA
Cooperation between government agencies and civil society organizations is a dynamic and multifaceted relationship that plays a crucial role in modern governance, social welfare and political innovation. Through the analysis of various international models, including the experience of the United States, the European Union, Scandinavia, Canada, and Australia, it becomes clear that such partnerships are an integral part of solving complex social problems. These collaborations are built on the premise that no single sector - government, business or civil society - can fully address the increasingly complex challenges facing modern society. By leveraging the unique strengths of each sector, governments and civil society organizations can work together to create more comprehensive solutions. One of the most important benefits of government-CSO collaboration is the increased effectiveness of government programs. CSOs often have deep ties to local communities and are well positioned to understand and respond to needs. Their proximity to society allows them to propose tailored interventions that can complement broader government initiatives. In cases such as the United States, where federal and state governments have partnered with CSOs on health and social service programs, this community expertise has proven essential to creating more relevant and effective public services.
New Dutch Government: Ultra-Right Ambitions Against European Norms and Laws
The article analyzes the political processes in the Netherlands, where, according to the results of the parliamentary elections held on November 22, 2023, the far-right Freedom Party received the greatest support from voters. However, due to a number of conditions and the inability to create a stable coalition, after lengthy negotiations that lasted 175 days, the party leader Geert Wilders was forced not only to resign as prime minister, but also to significantly change his radical rhetoric on issues such as migration, green policy, Islam, etc. The article also examines the issue of forced correction of political beliefs and ideological principles by the leaders of far-right forces after coming to power or participating in the formation of a coalition majority. According to the author, this situation demonstrates that radical and populist ideas are effective during an election campaign, helping to accumulate protest sentiment and expand their own electoral base. However, the current political system of both most European countries and the European Union as a whole still retains a sufficient number of instruments of influence to counter the spread of right-wing radical sentiments. The result of the study is to demonstrate the existence of tools to curb the radical positions of individual political parties, which are forced to adjust their activities, taking into account the generally accepted provisions and sentiments within the European Union.
Transformation of Ukrainian-Hungarian Relations in the Context of the Russian-Ukrainian War
The article examines the processes of forming Hungary’s foreign policy interests in the context of the war between Ukraine and Russia, taking into account the historical, political, economic, and cultural traditions of Ukrainian-Hungarian relations. Particular attention is paid to the influence of the geopolitical situation on bilateral relations, Hungary’s dependence on Russian energy resources, and the role of the Hungarian national minority in Transcarpathia. The study analyzes the political strategy of Viktor Orbán’s government, including its balancing act between obligations to the EU and NATO and its pragmatic ties with Russia. In this paper, the author attempts to characterize the impact of official Budapest’s policy on stability in the Central European region and the prospects for cooperation between the two countries.
sanctions against the Russian Federation
Neutrality as the Basis of Statehood and Foreign Policy of the Republic of Ireland
The article is devoted to the analysis of the phenomenon of Irish sovereignty as the foundation of statehood and foreign policy strategy of the Republic of Ireland in the context of global political transformations of the 20th–21st centuries. It is argued that the policy of neutrality of the Republic of Ireland has a rich history. It helps the country to avoid participation in military conflicts and influences international events. Ireland is not a member of military alliances and mutual defense agreements, which allows it to maintain independence. The EU and international partners respect the sovereignty and neutrality of Ireland, which is confirmed by legal guarantees provided in 2009. Ireland’s decision on neutrality was made after the struggle for independence and tense relations with the UK. Commitment to neutrality is not permanent, and its meaning continues to be reconsidered. Ireland’s increased participation in peacekeeping missions and integration into the EU have drawn attention to its neutrality. However, some aspects of EU integration raise concerns, especially the EU’s common foreign and security policy. It is shown that Irish neutrality has been the subject of debate and different interpretations since its inception. Ireland has traditionally followed a policy of neutrality, which is a historical tradition, not an obligation, as in the case of Austria. The policy of non-intervention in international relations was formed before the creation of the Irish Republic in 1948, when Ireland left the British Commonwealth. This decision was due to the desire of the Irish people to avoid involvement in British military conflicts, as well as the desire to gain independence and sovereignty from British rule. Irish neutrality is not enshrined in the constitution and has no official interpretation, but it is felt and real. After centuries of political oppression and repression by Britain, the Irish sought independence and self-determination. The idea was to pursue a policy different from the British in order to emphasize the uniqueness of the country. With the outbreak of World War II, neutrality began to be associated with the struggle for freedom. In the context of global political transformations of the 21st century, Proponents of the idea that it is impossible to maintain neutrality argue that the involvement of the Republic of Ireland in international relations excludes the possibility of maintaining neutrality. However, this approach does not take into account the changing geopolitical situation and the opinion of the Irish, who continue to consider their country neutral. It has been established that the Republic of Ireland is actively involved in international politics, being a member of the UN and a participant in the NATO Partnership for Peace program. It allowed the United States to use one of its airports for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Irish forces participated in UN peacekeeping missions. The liveliest discussions concern Ireland’s relationship with the EU. It has been proven that the Irish are worried about losing independence and neutrality, despite a positive attitude towards EU membership. Fear of losing sovereignty and neutrality affects public opinion. The position of most politicians has changed, not coinciding with public opinion. The last real supporter of neutrality was I. de Valera, who presented this concept as official. Currently, the vast majority of Irish people support neutrality.
Foreign Policy and Diplomacy of the People’s Republic of China on the African Continent
The article is devoted to the study of the peculiarities of China's foreign policy and diplomacy on the African continent. The subject of analysis is the most important area of Sino-African relations and the prospects for their development in the future. The growing need for natural resources due to China's rapid transition to a market-oriented economy has stimulated Beijing to search for new markets and energy sources, including the African continent. In addition, China considers Africa an integral part of the foundation of the Chinese foreign policy narrative about the non-universal nature of the ideals of Western democracies. In its African policy, Beijing is guided primarily by the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of countries and non-imposition of its demands. Even despite the significant growth of China's influence on the African continent at the beginning of the 21st century, Beijing did not have a specific global action plan for African countries for a long time, and its activities were limited to commercial projects, the intensification of discussions of the African issue in the discourse of Chinese political leaders makes it possible to predict that the African direction of China's foreign policy is moving towards further institutionalization. In 2015-2017, there was a certain slowdown in the development of Sino-African relations. Still, the beginning of trade conflicts between the PRC and the USA due to the Trump administration's policies again stimulated Beijing to intensify the African direction of its foreign policy. We can conclude from the 2018 Beijing Summit that China's claim to Africa has increased, especially since Beijing considered criticism from the West and adjusted its African policy. More than ever before, Africa is emphasized as the "foundation of the foundation of China's foreign policy", focused on supporting developing countries. The construction of this coalition is carried out not only at the expense of economic rewards but also increasingly with the help of soft power in the form of media, educational programs and institutions for the education of future African political elites.
The Position оf Taiwan Authorities on the “Taiwan Issue”: a Retrospective Analysis
The article examines the period of President Chiang Kai-shek՚s rule in Taiwan. It is noted that this period was characterized by a one-party dictatorship, which for a long time managed to ensure the relative stability of its regime. It is noted that the successor Yen Chia-kan faced challenges in the form of rapid diplomatic losses: more and more states broke off diplomatic relations with Taiwan and established them with the PRC. It is noted that Yen Chia-kan’s presidency was perceived by many as a transitional period, since real power was increasingly concentrated in Chiang Ching-kuo, who served as prime minister during Yen Chia-kan’s presidency and later officially replaced him in 1978. The importance of the decision to lift the ban on holding leadership positions in the Kuomintang for party members born in Taiwan is noted. It is indicated that at the beginning of his presidency Lee Teng-hui, tried to create a basis for peace across the Taiwan Strait, and therefore abandoned Chiang Kai-shek’s policy of opposing communism and restoring a single state, and also canceled the recognition of the Communist Party of China as a rebel organization. The position on the "Taiwan issue" of Chen Shui-bian, who did not recognize the "1992 Consensus", as well as the formulations related to "one China", is considered. It is noted that Chen Shui-bian is the first president of Taiwan to serve two consecutive terms from 2000 to 2008 and to be elected through direct elections. It is determined that the warming of relations between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party of China during Ma Ying-jeou’s tenure in power caused concern in the Democratic Progressive Party and a significant part of Taiwanese, which ultimately led to the 2014 protests known as the "Sunflower Movement". It is noted that Tsai Ing-wen publicly denied the existence of the "1992 Consensus", unlike her predecessor from the Kuomintang Party, Ma Ying-jeou. It is mentioned that the 2024 parliamentary elections in Taiwan, in which the number of seats of the Democratic Progressive Party in parliament decreased, and it now does not have a majority, which complicates the implementation of Lai Ching-te’s election program, which to a large extent became a continuation of Tsai Ing-wen’s policies.
The Saudi-Israeli Conflict: Current State and Settlement Scenario
The article analyses the origins and the real state of Saudi-Israeli relations, outlines possible scenarios for resolving the Saudi-Israeli conflict. It is shown that the conflict between Saudi Arabia and Israel has deep historical roots and a complex structure. The main reason for the conflict and disagreements is the Palestinian issue, the resolution of which Saudi Arabia constantly keeps in view, defending the rights of the Palestinian people and insisting on the creation of an independent state. A SWOT-analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of current Saudi-Israeli relations showed that their normalization has significant potential for positive changes in economic, political, and security spheres. Opportunities for improving relations include attracting European investments, which may be caused by the positive reaction of the international community to the normalization of relations. With the help of the scenario method, an attempt was made to predict three future scenarios for the development of Saudi-Israeli relations: an optimistic one – full normalization of relations, which may take place with the mediation and support of the USA; a pessimistic scenario, according to which normalization is expected to be undermined by Iran’s intervention, the Islamic Republic is trying to create an axis of evil that will oppose the Western world, especially the USA; a realistic scenario, when normalization may have a formal character, that is, minimal diplomatic efforts are made by both countries, partial normalization of relations takes place, including economic cooperation and security guarantees.
Humanitarian Aid to Ukraine by Poland in the Conditions of Full-Scale Russian Aggression
Full-scale aggression against Ukraine significantly affected the nature and dynamics of Ukraine's relations at the regional and global level. Ukraine's cooperation with neighboring states took a special place. Relations between Ukraine and the Republic of Poland occupy a prominent place here. At the highest international level of strategic partnership, Poland supported Ukraine, strongly condemned Russian aggression and joined the international community's anti-Russian political and economic sanctions. Ukrainian-Polish political, diplomatic, economic, financial, military-technical relations and issues of humanitarian cooperation are of great importance. Humanitarian aid to Ukraine from Poland in the conditions of open Russian armed aggression is the immediate subject of research. This assistance of the Polish state and society has become extremely important for Ukrainian refugees from the war and overcoming the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. After February 24, 2022, Poland opened its borders to Ukrainians who were forced to flee the war in Ukraine. In total, more than 6.7 million Ukrainian refugees left Ukraine, more than 1.7 million received permanent asylum in Poland, material and medical assistance. The Polish government responded quickly and effectively to the humanitarian crisis and launched a system of reception and accommodation of refugees. Polish public organizations and volunteer movements play an important role in providing asylum to Ukrainian refugees. They became key participants in the process of organizing accommodation, transportation, care and integration of immigrants into Polish society. One of the most important initiatives of the Polish state and society in providing humanitarian aid to Ukraine was a large-scale campaign to collect funds and resources. In total, more than three years of full-scale war, Ukraine received more than 100 billion zlotys of humanitarian, financial and military aid from Poland. This assistance is a vivid manifestation of the solidarity of the Poles with the Ukrainian people in the fight against Russian aggression.
The Phenomenon of International Climate Disinformation: Political Science and Psychological Perspective
The article positions climate change as a critically important area not only of national but also of international politics which becomes increasingly vulnerable to external interference. It examines climate change disinformation disseminated through the international interaction of countries. By analyzing the conceptual frameworks of foreign influence and interference, the authors explore approaches to the correlation of these terms, drawing a number of conclusions. In particular, in the context of climate disinformation, it is appropriate to distinguish between foreign interference and influence. Interference is viewed as a distortion of reality, the division of societies, and the weakening of democracy while influence is seen as a negative or positive phenomenon. The former perceives it as an information weapon against geopolitical adversaries while the latter sees it as the ability to transform external influence into a source of development, rather than threats. The presence of two terms in the academic discourse is claimed, i.e., international or foreign (external) climate disinformation, however, preference is given to the former – international climate disinformation. Characterizing the psychological mechanisms of the climate disinformation spread, attention is drawn to the fact that they generally operate in the same way, regardless of whether the disseminator is international or domestic. Emphasis is placed on the role of cognitive biases, emotional manipulations, rhetorical strategies and logical fallacies, direct attacks on scientists and scientific institutions, often accompanied by stereotypes of demonization or dehumanization. Counteracting the psychological impact of international climate disinformation requires special attention to the problem of cognitive (psychological) inoculation.
rhetorical strategies and logical fallacies
The Impact of Digital Disinformation on the Course of the Russian-Ukrainian War
This article examines the impact of digital disinformation on the course of the Russian-Ukrainian war, positioning it as a central tool in Russia’s hybrid warfare strategy. Since 2014, and especially following the full-scale invasion in 2022, disinformation campaigns have intensified, targeting both Ukrainian and international audiences. The analysis explores how fake news, manipulated content, AI-generated deepfakes, and coordinated propaganda efforts have been used to undermine public morale, erode trust in institutions, distort narratives about the war, and weaken international support for Ukraine. The article also discusses the role of cyber incidents that have supported disinformation efforts, such as the December 2023 cyberattack on the major telecom provider Kyivstar, which disrupted critical communications and public services, creating confusion and panic. Other attacks on state registries, the Ministry of Justice, and Ukrainian Railways are considered within the broader context of information operations. Attention is given to Ukraine’s evolving responses, including institutional, civic, and international initiatives aimed at countering false narratives and enhancing digital resilience. Ukraine’s experience in combating Russian disinformation is supported by cooperation with Western governments, fact-checking organizations like VoxCheck, and technology platforms such as YouTube, which play a vital role in moderating harmful content. The study also highlights shifts in international cyber cooperation, especially after the 2025 change in U.S. leadership, which led to a pause in offensive cyber collaboration. In contrast, the European Union expanded its support through cybersecurity initiatives, new satellite intelligence systems, and closer ties with Ukrainian cyber institutions via ENISA. Ultimately, the article argues that digital disinformation has become one of the most defining weapons of the war, requiring not only technical defenses but also societal resilience, strategic communication, and international unity.
Mapping the Terrain of Digital Warfare: A Bibliometric Analysis of Russian Propaganda During Armed Conflicts
In an increasingly interconnected world communication, the rise of social media has transformed the landscape of information dissemination and public discourse. Against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, especially during conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the internet has emerged as a powerful tool for both propaganda and counter-propaganda, influencing perceptions and behaviors on a global scale. This study undertakes a bibliometric analysis of the academic literature addressing Russian digital propaganda in times of war. The primary goals are twofold: first, to identify significant themes central to contemporary scholarly discussions and the interconnections among these themes; second, to ascertain which academic sources have garnered the highest citation counts and highlight the most recent scholarly contributions within this field. A total of 707 scientific publications were analyzed, sourced from the Journal Citation Reports (JCR). Employing bibliometric techniques, including citation analysis and thematic mapping, we delineate the landscape of research related to Russian digital propaganda during wartime. The findings reveal a multifaceted discourse, encompassing issues of misinformation, psychological effects, and national identity narratives. Additionally, the analysis identifies key scholarly sources that have shaped this dialogue and highlights emerging trends poised to guide future research. Overall, this study aims to enhance understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in Russian digital propaganda, thereby contributing valuable insights to scholars and practitioners alike. By systematically exploring this vital area of research, we hope to inform future inquiries and foster a more nuanced comprehension of the implications of digital propaganda in modern conflict scenarios.
Strategic Support of Ukraine by the United Kingdom in Countering Russian Aggression
The article analyses the strategic support provided to Ukraine by the United Kingdom in the context of Russia’s long-term aggression. Particular attention is paid to the comprehensive study of political, institutional, and value-based factors shaping British foreign policy towards Ukraine. The paper also examines military-political assistance within the framework of the UK’s Global Britain foreign policy doctrine. Furthermore, it highlights the special role of the United Kingdom as a “geopolitical moderator” in mobilising Euro-Atlantic support for Ukraine in countering Russian aggression.
National Interests of Ukraine as the Basis for Countering Russian Aggression
The article analyzes the formation of national interests and values and their public awareness during the period of Independence of Ukraine. It is noted that the study of Ukrainian national interests and values and their public awareness during the period of Independence is quite relevant and appropriate within the framework of the development of both theoretical and methodological problems and applied tasks of domestic political science at the current stage of development of Ukrainian society. The category of “national interests” in domestic political science has not yet been covered sufficiently. Therefore, a theoretical analysis of the category of “national interests” is carried out, as well as an analysis of the problems of their formation and awareness throughout the Independence of Ukraine. The update on the problem of Ukrainian national interests is due to the establishment and consolidation of Ukrainian sovereignty, the establishment of the national consciousness of the Ukrainian people. The categorical apparatus of the national interests and values is considered. It is concluded that today the main national interest of Ukraine is the struggle for state independence against the neocolonial ambitions of Russia, the defence of its right to its own political development. National interests are the vital interests of the people, reflecting the aspirations of citizens to ensure stable and sustainable development of society and minimize social threats.
Russian History Policy in Germany 2020: Memory of World War II as an Argument
In this scientific thesis, the author examines the topic of Russification of Soviet military history as a trend in the context of the deployment of modern Russian propaganda. After all, it was historical memory that also became a constitutive element of special German-Russian relations in the 1990s and early 2000s. However, in recent years, Russian history policy can no longer be reconciled with the German understanding of historical truth and academic freedom. The article analyzes some aspects of V. Putin’s 2020 narrative, which was dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. It paints a harmonious picture of the alliance between the three allies – the USA, Great Britain and the USSR – during the war and in the post-war period. The political intention of this text becomes clear: the 5 states with veto power in the UN Security Council should work together to shape the world order of the 21st century. However, the author draws a disappointing conclusion regarding Putin’s politics of memory – Russia’s current brutal aggressive war in Ukraine, as well as other long-term challenges such as climate change, migration, flight and pandemics that have arisen as a result, can hardly be controlled by two or three major powers. This requires the interaction of the entire world community, in which Europe and, of course, Ukraine must play an important role.
long-term challenges of the 21st century
In the proposed article, the author examines the sources and political consequences of American susceptibility to Putin's extensive propaganda, deployed in particular in the USA. It is emphasized that information campaigns in the media, in political organizations and in conservative religious circles have a certain influence on public opinion. More interesting, in the researcher's opinion, is the question of why many Americans have become susceptible to the topics of Russian propaganda in recent years. Аttention is paid to the most effective anti-Ukrainian topics, which in particular influenced the mood among Republicans. There were four such topics – first of all, this is the monetary component of US aid to Ukraine. Secondly, the media discusses the issue that Ukraine does not support religious freedom, but it is the Russian Federation that stands as a defender of Christianity and traditionalism. The third topic is the anti-global sentiments and actions supported by many Republicans. Ukraine, as is known, has a political aim to join the EU. And the main “horror stories” of the conservative worldview in the USA are the European Union and the World Economic Forum. And, finally, the fourth topic is the “coup” of 2014: in the minds of American conservatives, it is the transformation of the Revolution of Dignity into a “coup” against the democratically elected Viktor Yanukovych, sponsored by the State Department of the Obama era. According to the author, today we should concentrate material resources and psychological efforts to develop potential counterstrategies to the dangers and challenges of modern psychological warfare. In this context, art can also play a role in making Americans less susceptible to the themes of Russian propaganda. The brilliant documentary about the Revolution of Dignity “Winter on Fire” was created ten years ago and can be re-presented to an interested public. Supporters of Ukraine should emphasize the basic political value – national sovereignty too. It is unlikely that any American administration will be able to sit on two chairs – simultaneously supporting the principle of national independence and being condescending to neo-imperialist goals in the Russian-Ukrainian war.
Influence of Putin՚s propaganda in the USA
counter-strategy of supporters of Ukraine
Generative AI Technologies as a Tool for Counter-Narratives to Russian Propaganda
This article explores the potential of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as a tool for constructing counter-narratives against russian propaganda in the context of the full-scale war in Ukraine. It examines methodological approaches to AI in the field of international communication, identifies key characteristics of the information warfare environment – such as deepfakes, large language model (LLM) poisoning, and automated disinformation – and focuses on how these technologies are exploited by hostile actors. Special attention is given to Ukrainian governmental and civil society initiatives that utilize generative AI to produce fact-based, emotionally resonant, and multimodal counter-narratives. The article discusses the ethical and legal boundaries of such use, including the risks of eroding public trust, the opacity of algorithmic outputs, and the challenge of distinguishing legitimate information defense from manipulation. Finally, it outlines future research perspectives regarding regulatory frameworks, strategic communication, and the development of algorithmic trust in democratic societies. The analysis is based on 20 domestic and international sources.
The Evolution of Russian Disinformation Strategies in the Context of the Russian-Ukrainian War (2022–2025)
This paper analyzes the evolution of Russian disinformation strategies during the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war from 2022 to 2025, highlighting key phases, operational methods, and the adaptive nature of propaganda in the context of hybrid warfare. It demonstrates how the Russian Federation systematically transformed its disinformation campaigns from traditional Soviet-style narratives into complex, technology-driven operations capable of targeting both domestic and international audiences. The paper also examines the impact of major geopolitical developments, such as the return of D. Trump to the U.S. presidency in 2025, which Russian actors exploit to amplify doubts about Western unity and continued support for Ukraine. The study traces the intensification of false narratives, the use of deepfakes and AI-generated content, and the coordination with cyberattacks and psychological operations to destabilize Ukrainian society and weaken Western support. Special attention is given to Ukraine’s proactive countermeasures, including rapid fact-checking, strategic communication, pre-emptive exposure of planned manipulations, and efforts to strengthen public resilience through digital literacy and community engagement. The paper also examines the role of social media platforms, troll farms, and bot networks in amplifying fake news and the necessity for stronger collaboration between governments, civil society, and technology companies to mitigate the spread of falsehoods. Moreover, it explores the significance of international cooperation in exposing and sanctioning state-sponsored propaganda, emphasizing the importance of a unified response at the EU and UN levels. The findings underline that the Russian-Ukrainian war has become a testing ground for modern information warfare, where adaptive tactics and resilient societies are equally decisive as military strength. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of how contemporary disinformation evolves and what measures are essential for democratic states to safeguard information integrity and national security in the face of persistent hybrid threats.
Defamation as a Tool for Destroying Statehood: Russian Practices of Hybrid War against Ukraine
The materials of the article reflect the main provisions of the author՚s report at the International Conference on April 11, 2025 and devoted to the analysis of the role of defamation as a key tool of hybrid warfare in the context of 21st-century world-system transformations. The author emphasizes that in conditions of active military conflict, the role of nation-states increases while the role of international organizations, such as the UN, decreases. Particular attention is paid to the Russian discrediting policy towards Ukraine, in particular its practices of the early 1990s, when the thesis of “Ukrainian fascism” developed by Russia led to a distortion of the world community’s perception of Ukraine, the spread of distrust and increased political pressure on our state to abandon nuclear weapons. The author emphasizes that a systematic analysis of the media space and Russian political activity is crucial to understanding the Kremlin's true goals and developing an effective countermeasure to its informational and psychological influence, not only in Ukraine but also in other regions of the world.
The materials of the article reflect the basic provisions of the author՚s speech at the International Scientific and Practical Conference (Chernivtsi, April 11, 2025), which discussed the problems of countering Russian informational and psychological influences in the context of a full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war. In particular, the diplomat analyzes in detail the evolution of public sentiment in other countries – from unconditional support for Ukraine in this war to a certain "fatigue" in some of them from the long-term confrontation. However, the idea is emphasized that the Russian victory opens the era of new imperialism. Today, Ukraine should build correct and verified strategic communication with both the West and Russia. Given the scale of losses in this war and the depth of historical trauma, the author believes that at the human level, relations between Ukraine and Russia will long be relations of resentment, revenge, vendetta. As for the EU, we should make sure that the spirit of Europe also becomes the spirit of Ukraine. The conclusion is: Ukraine must stand – and then the liberal world order will stand with it, which has given the world an unprecedented streak of peace, economic growth, humanism, abolished borders and technological breakthroughs in the medical, energy, and communication spheres. Putinism as the ideology and practice of neo-imperialism must suffer a crushing defeat.
On the Need to Create a New Innovative Culture in the Society Media Sphere
In the article, the author examines important issues in the development of the latest information and communication technologies (ICT). In particular, the processes of human socialization and communication and various forms of its organization in the digital environment are analyzed in detail. Fundamental reform of all systems of education, accounting and communication of citizens in the "digital age" should lead to a rethinking of the entire style of social and political life in the 21st century, as well as to the formation of a new consciousness of citizens regarding innovative thinking and responsibility in working with information. The author states that in the new situation, the creation of even perfect legal norms and procedures becomes not just a dream, but a condition for the survival of Ukraine as a state. Under such conditions, understanding the ownership rights of such phenomena as information and information resources becomes the key to the solution of worldview problems by the country's ruling elite regarding innovative development.
information and communication technologies
Social Media in the 2020 US Presidential Election Campaign
Democracy relies on fair elections, free from interference or manipulation. Today, social networks are becoming increasingly influential across various spheres of life. They are now actively used to distort public opinion. In particular, the growing role of social media in politics was evident during the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Their presence in the political landscape raises concerns about their potential to influence democratic principles. This article is part of a study on the role of social media in democratic processes in the United States, with a particular focus on the 2020 presidential election campaign. It demonstrates that social media played a significant role in U.S. democracy, especially during the 2020 election. While social media contributed to greater public engagement and increased voter participation, it also exacerbated social polarization and created opportunities for foreign interference. However, before the 2020 presidential election, foreign interference remained relatively low and had minimal impact on the election outcome. J.Biden managed to achieve deeper engagement through multiple social media interactions with a well-structured strategy. As a result, he won the elections, in part due to the active involvement of social media.
The Nostalgia Phenomenon in Central and Eastern Europe: Experience or Challenge of Post-Communist Transformations?
The article examines the phenomenon of nostalgia for the socialist past in post-communist Central and Eastern European societies, particularly through an analysis of Georgi Gospodinov's novel Time Shelter. The author examines the significance of individual and collective memory, highlighting how literature reflects sociocultural challenges connected to the past. Special attention is devoted to the relationship between material and immaterial forms of memory, as studied by Maurice Halbwachs and Paul Connerton. The article demonstrates how reconstructing the past through rituals, symbols, and physical objects shapes the formation of social narratives. The research findings suggest that nostalgia for the past often serves as a tool for manipulation, particularly in political and cultural fields. The article also analyzes how modern cultural and political processes influence memory development, especially in terms of using media tools to create idealized images of the past. It emphasizes the risks of retreating into "comfortable" periods of history and the importance of critically examining the past to avoid social amnesia. The article presents an interdisciplinary approach to analyzing memory issues, drawing on examples from literature and cultural practices of Central and Eastern European countries, contributing to our understanding of modern social transformations.
The Religious Factor of Sovietization in Western Ukraine
The article examines the process of destruction of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church by the Soviet authorities in western Ukraine, as well as repressive actions against Protestant religious organizations. The Soviet leadership viewed the Greek Catholic Church as a potential source of pro-Western political influence and propaganda. In order to make such processes impossible in the future and to prevent the aggravation of relations between believers by the Soviet authorities, it was decided to liquidate the UGCC. The authorities tried to give this church action the appearance of church canonical principles. This is how the initiative of some priests about the entry of the UGCC into the Russian Orthodox Church arose. In March 1945, instructions on the liquidation of the Greek Catholic Church were prepared. It provided for the creation of the Lviv-Ternopil Orthodox Diocese, the transfer of the Uniate Cathedral in Lviv to it, the deployment of missionary work among Greek Catholic believers, and most importantly, the creation of an initiative group within the Greek Catholic Church that was to announce a break with the Vatican and call on the Uniate clergy to transfer to Orthodoxy. This instruction was personally approved by Y. Stalin. The work on the liquidation of the UGCC was led by the Central Committee of the Communist Party (b) of the USSR and the bodies of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the USSR. Under these conditions, on May 28, 1945, the Central Initiative Group for the Reunification of the Greek Catholic Church with the Orthodox Church was created in Lviv. With the support of party-state bodies and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the initiative group managed to subjugate the majority of priests in a short time. As of January 1, 1946, 859 priests out of 1,294 (that is, 66%) supported it. On March 8-10, 1946, the Central Initiative Group held a meeting in the Cathedral of St. Yura in Lviv UGCC Cathedral. 216 priests and 19 laymen of the UGCC, a delegation of the Russian Orthodox Church took part in this Council. The Lviv Council proclaimed the abolition of the Union of Brest in 1596 and the "reunification" of the Greek Catholic Church with the Russian Orthodox Church. The Uniate church parishes were transferred to the Orthodox Church. 590 Greek Catholic priests refused to recognize the council's decision, 344 of them were arrested and convicted. There is no doubt that the Lviv Council in March 1946 was not canonical, since the head of the church and its bishopric did not agree to its holding, and even more so to its adoption of any decisions. The non-canonicality of the cathedral also lies in the fact that the priests of the UGCC were openly pressured by the party structures and bodies of the MDB.
Opposition Rhetoric in the Information Space of Moldova (March‒April 2023)
The article is devoted to the problem of studying the Moldovan information space and leading media, as well as narratives of Russian propaganda, which are spread through mass communication and new media (telegram channels) by Moldovan propagandists. The review and analysis of the articles of the leading channels of Moldova aims to distinguish the tone of rhetoric and the main narratives spread by various political forces, as well as the propaganda of Russian propagandists in the virtual space of pro-Russian media regarding Ukrainians, Ukraine and the Russian-Ukrainian war. The purpose of the article is to investigate and distinguish the thematic areas of the leading Moldovan media, to investigate the rhetoric and tone of the materials of the articles. Research methodology: the article uses a set of general and special methods: the method of conceptual analysis in determining individual narratives that are present in the articles of Moldovan propaganda telegram channels; a comparative analysis in identifying the narratives spread by Moldovan and Russian propagandists regarding the image of Ukrainians, Ukraine and the Russian-Ukrainian war among ordinary citizens of Moldova, as well as a synthesis in identifying thematic models of the Moldovan information space. Distortion of facts, excessive emotionality, condemnation of everything Ukrainian in the pro-Russian Moldovan media are studied by the author in a scientific article. Results and conclusions. The general characteristics of the information space of Moldova touch on thematic areas important for the state: the security situation of Moldova, the official language, foreign and domestic policies, the government vs. the opposition, the economy of the state, benefits for the population and social protection, the Russian-Ukrainian war, the Transnistrian region. Telegram channels of Moldova, which have a Russian orientation, spread outright lies about Ukrainians and the Russian-Ukrainian war. The articles and messages of these telegram channels contain narratives that have a negative propaganda character and create a negative image of Ukraine and Ukrainians in the minds of the channel̓̓̓̓̓̓’s readers. The manipulative materials about Ukraine, Ukrainians, the Armed Forces, Ukrainian soldiers, and Ukrainian politicians of these telegram channels have negative images that subconsciously affect the average subscribers of this channel.
Features of Conceptualization of the “Disinformation” Scientific Term in Modern Political Science
The article analyzes the features of conceptualization of the concept of disinformation in modern political science. It is substantiated that the continuity of modern geopolitical turbulence has caused an increase in the interest of academic communities in studying the processes of production and circulation of disinformation and the principles of policy to counter the spread of disinformation narratives. The analysis has proven the impossibility of creating a unified theory of disinformation, even in a situation of urgent need to strengthen conceptual accuracy. One of the main problems, the solution of which will contribute to the formation of a clear but flexible concept of disinformation, is the problem of simultaneous, and sometimes synonymous, application of a number of categories and concepts through which the empirical cross-section of disinformation is described. Achieving scientific consensus on the measurable characteristics of disinformation will be a step closer to the possibility of developing relevant and applicable models of policy to counter disinformation in real political processes. It has been established that determining the proper place of the political and politically significant context of the emergence and spread of disinformation is fundamental for modern political science.
Legal Principles of the Artificial Intelligence Development: European and American Experience
This article highlights the legal regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) development in the European Union and the United States of America. It analyzes key regulatory legal acts that define the principles of AI development, implementation, and use, as well as ensuring ethical standards and human rights in this field. The European approach to AI regulation is based on the development of a comprehensive regulatory framework, including the proposal of the «Artificial Intelligence Act» («AI Act»), initiatives to ensure algorithmic transparency, and the protection of personal data. Particular attention is paid to the categorization of AI usage risks and the implementation of control mechanisms for its application. On the other hand, the US legal system is based on a decentralized approach that combines sectoral regulation, ethical recommendations, and government initiatives for technology development. A key initiative in the US is the «Executive Order on Promoting Safe and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence», signed in 2023. This order aims to establish national standards for the safe and ethical development of AI, particularly by enhancing transparency and security in the application of AI technologies in fields such as healthcare, finance, and law enforcement. Additionally, the US introduced the «Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights», which outlines principles for human rights protection in AI applications. The core document emphasizes rights such as transparency and control over personal data usage, security and protection from harm, non-discrimination, and privacy rights. At the same time, particular attention is given to fostering innovation and industry self-regulation. The article also compares the approaches of both systems to regulating responsibility for AI-made decisions, protecting human rights, and ensuring cybersecurity. At the same time, AI regulation in the United States places greater emphasis on fostering innovation and technological development while ensuring basic ethical norms and citizen rights protection. Both approaches have their advantages and challenges: the European approach provides clearer and stricter standards, whereas the American approach allows for more flexibility and room for technological advancement.
consequences of artificial intelligence use