Story perspectives

Investigators Uncover Russia-Linked Fake News Network in 139 Countries

9/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Investigators uncovered a Russia-linked fake-news network targeting New Zealand and 138 other countries.
French agency Viginum called the “Pravda”-named operation a structured, coordinated pro-Russian propaganda network run by Crimean-based TigerWeb.
The network runs 140 country-specific domains, often launching sites before elections and the Olympics.
Two New Zealand portals publish in te reo Maori.
Experts warn the content could train AI to spread pro-Russian narratives.

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Story summary

Investigators uncovered a Russia-linked fake-news network targeting New Zealand and 138 other countries.
French agency Viginum called the “Pravda”-named operation a structured, coordinated pro-Russian propaganda network run by Crimean-based TigerWeb.
The network runs 140 country-specific domains, often launching sites before elections and the Olympics.
Two New Zealand portals publish in te reo Maori.
Experts warn the content could train AI to spread pro-Russian narratives.