Vladimir Putin has not only brought war to Europe, but is also trying to destabilize Western societies with the help of disinformation.
This was stated by Austrian Federal President Alexander van der Bellen in his speech at a New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps in Vienna, Ukrinform reports.
“The war on European soil continues. President Putin has brought it to us, and no one knows when he will release his victim – Ukraine. Moreover, in his own country he incites hatred of the West, and inside our countries he tries to destabilize our democratic, liberal societies with the help of disinformation,” Van der Bellen stressed.
In his opinion, Western countries are not immune to Putin's disinformation.
“We do not have enough tools to counter the lies and distortions that have flooded our society, in particular through social networks. And it seems that a great battle has begun for the consciousness of people and governments,” said Van der Bellen.
The Austrian President stressed the importance of cooperation and joint counteraction to challenges.
“Now, more than ever, we need to work together, talk to each other, listen to each other and find common solutions. We need partnerships, multilateralism – the EU, the UN – and we need diplomacy. Because together we are stronger. For this reason, Austria must and will remain a stable partner in the European Union. “For the same reason, Austria is applying for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the period 2027-2028,” he noted.