Russia’s information war is spreading across Europe and appears to follow election cycles, according to Aage Borchgrevink. In an interview with Nettavisen, Borchgrevink described Russian influence operations as “a virus that is spreading around Europe.” He pointed to developments in Georgia in 2024 and ongoing activity in Armenia ahead of parliamentary elections. Borchgrevink also warned that similar patterns could emerge in Norway.
The comments came as heads of state and government from 40 European Political Community member states gathered in Yerevan to discuss European security. The broader context underscores growing concern about non-military pressure tactics used by Moscow.
Aage Borchgrevink on Russia’s Shadow War
Aage Borchgrevink is a senior advisor at the Norwegian Helsinki Committee. He agreed with findings from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), which argues that the Kremlin is expanding a global media conglomerate to shape international narratives. According to ISW, this growing network includes media companies, influencers, and journalists across multiple countries.
Borchgrevink described these efforts as part of Russia’s “shadow war.” He emphasized that Europe should expect more coordinated influence campaigns in the coming years. Aage Borchgrevink stressed that awareness and preparedness are essential, as such operations may intensify and potentially reach Norway.
Cognitive Warfare and Expanding Media Networks
The Nettavisen article highlights ISW’s assessment that Russia is increasingly relying on cognitive warfare. This approach focuses on influencing how societies think and make political decisions. Rather than direct confrontation, it seeks to shape public debate and policy outcomes.
Russian state-linked outlets such as RT and the Telegram channel Rybar play a central role in this strategy. Rybar, led by Mikhail Sergeevich Zvinchuk, has been sanctioned by the EU, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. British authorities state that the company promotes support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and interferes in democratic processes. ISW notes that cognitive warfare integrates selective truths, media cooperation agreements, and covert tools alongside diplomatic and economic pressure.
Norwegian Intelligence Warnings on Influence Operations
The Norwegian Armed Forces Intelligence Service echoed these concerns in its “Focus 2026” threat assessment. The report warns that Russia may increase covert influence operations in Europe, including fake social media accounts, cyber activities, and proxy actors. It describes these actions as hybrid or gray-zone tactics designed to create uncertainty and influence political decisions.
According to the report, Russia operates in ways that obscure state involvement. Espionage, sabotage, and influence operations are central tools. The aim is to shape attitudes and decisions among both the public and political authorities.
Read the Full Interview
Through his remarks, Aage Borchgrevink underscores the broader security implications of Russia’s information war. His expert analysis in Nettavisen highlights the need for vigilance as Europe faces both military and non-military pressure from Moscow.
Further Reading: Russia’s Strategic Actions
For deeper insight into Russia’s broader state strategies, explore the portal, Sanctions on Russia & Russian Economic Retaliation. While focused on sanctions policy, the platform provides essential context on Russia’s overall strategic posture.
