A fake video is circulating on social media, allegedly showing Ukrainian military personnel discussing preparations for a riot in Budapest according to the Maidan scenario. The video is presented as "leaked" from a Ukrainian serviceman's phone. This was reported by the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD), writes UNN.
In reality, this video shows signs of being staged. The individuals in the frame who are "planning Maidan in Budapest" are dressed in military uniforms without insignia - no conspiracy at all, as the military uniform is used exclusively to psychologically attract attention.
The CCD notes that the footage does not show faces or details that would allow identifying the people or the location of the shooting. Despite the use of the Ukrainian language, the behavior of the people in the frame and the context of the conversation look "unnatural and artificial."
The large map on the wall, clearly showing the inscription "Budapest," adds to the "theatricality." Russia creates a number of similar videos every month to discredit Ukrainian military personnel; this is done by agencies and theatrical studios that work with the enemy's Ministry of Defense.
The first publications of the video appeared on accounts that systematically spread anti-Ukrainian narratives, consonant with Russian propaganda. At the same time, an activation of a pro-Russian network of bloggers promoting narratives about alleged "Ukrainian interference in elections" in Hungary is also being recorded.
According to the CCD, the dissemination of this video is part of a coordinated operation. It is likely that former Berkut officers, who fled to Russia after 2014, were brought to Budapest for its implementation. It is noted that they may be involved in staged provocations or the creation of an "evidence base" for further accusations against Ukraine.
The goal of this operation is to create an artificial pretext for accusing Ukraine of interfering in the internal affairs of European states, particularly electoral processes, to sow distrust of Ukraine among partners, and to influence the internal political situation in EU and NATO countries.