Creativity as a tool in Russian disinformation against Ukraine’s integration into NATO

Abstract

We often associate creativity with innovation and progress. But in the digital age, it has also become a powerful tool of hybrid warfare with disinformation being an in-tegral element of it. This paper examines how Russia uses creative methods - such as conspiracy theories, memes and manipulated visuals - to influence public opinion and undermine public support for Ukraine’s NATO membership. The article is based on an analysis of three key notions: (1) the mechanisms of creative disinformation, (2) the role of individuals and society in spreading these narratives, and (3) the institutional response to counter them. Based on knowledge of propaganda techniques, as well as the case studies conducted, this article will serve as a kind of framework through which we will note how creativity can be an asset in information warfare and a force in resisting it. Its hypothesis is simple: insofar as creative interference serves this pur-pose, to strengthen Russian influence campaigns on the same principle, the strategy of defense against it can be developed relying on creativity. The conclusions of this work leave us with the fact that, therefore, creativity can both help build and demolish disinformation in the context of conflict.