Russia stages fake seizures of villages: how the GUR exposes propaganda schemes

According to glavcom.ua: Russian propaganda has prompted a new tactic for spreading disinformation, as reported by the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine. Now the enemy actively uses staged 'seizures' of populated areas to create an impression of success on the front.

In this scheme, groups with Russian flags bypass Ukrainian positions, and some manage to get into individual villages, where they shoot short 'seizure' videos. These materials are then used for 'victorious' reports and disinformation through Russian media.

❗️Fake 'victories': occupiers shoot staged videos of seizures of populated areas pic.twitter.com/E1DbKfteEP

— GLAVCOM (@GLAVCOM_UA) August 16, 2025

In response to this disinformation, Russian sources announced the 'seizure' of the village of Andriivka-Klevtsove, spreading the corresponding video. However, the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine posted its own video to expose the true situation.

Conclusion

Russian propaganda uses a new trick to spread disinformation, focusing on fabricated 'seizures'. Ukrainian military and intelligence actively counter this tactic, trying to eliminate the influence of manipulations from the enemy.