Artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly increasing the reach and effectiveness of Russian propaganda narratives targeting Kosovo, particularly in the run-up to the early parliamentary elections on December 28, 2025, according to an in-depth analysis by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL).
In recent weeks, pro-Russian media outlets and Telegram channels have intensified messaging that portrays Kosovo as corrupt, illegitimate, Western-controlled, and hostile toward Serbs. Commonly used terms include “Serbophobia,” “persecution of Serbs,” and “Albanian criminals,” while Kosovo is frequently referred to as a “so-called state” or “quasi-state,” deliberately denying its sovereignty.
Key propaganda narratives identified
- Delegitimization of Kosovo’s statehood, including the systematic use of quotation marks around its name
- Victimization of the Serbian community, particularly in northern Kosovo
- Framing the West (EU/NATO/US) as hostile and manipulative
- Promotion of the Serb List as the only “safe” political choice for Kosovo Serbs
Russian state-backed outlets such as RT and Sputnik, along with affiliated Telegram channels like “Balkanar” and “For Serbia in Russian,” have repeatedly called on Kosovo Serbs to vote exclusively for the Serb List, ignoring other Serbian political alternatives.
Experts warn of AI-driven escalation
According to analysts from the Kosovar Center for Security Studies (QKSS) and academic experts in media and AI, artificial intelligence is making disinformation more dangerous by enabling:
- Mass production of coordinated content in local languages
- Imitation of local media styles to boost credibility
- Automation of fake accounts simulating public support
- Potential creation of audio and video deepfakes, especially during sensitive electoral periods
“These narratives are not just aimed at people,” experts note, “but are increasingly designed to feed AI systems, creating a self-reinforcing loop of misinformation.”
Cumulative impact on democracy
Researchers stress that the impact of such propaganda is not immediate but cumulative, exploiting existing grievances, fear, and mistrust. During elections, these narratives are used to undermine democratic processes, erode trust in institutions, and weaken confidence in international partners.
Although RT and Sputnik are officially sanctioned and banned in Kosovo, authorities acknowledge that their online content cannot be fully blocked due to the dynamic nature of the internet.
Why this matters
As Kosovo approaches a crucial electoral moment, AI-enhanced propaganda poses a serious challenge to electoral integrity, public trust, and regional stability, reinforcing the need for media literacy, institutional vigilance, and coordinated counter-disinformation efforts.
