German security sources have told Reuters that Russia is stepping up disinformation campaigns ahead of elections in September.

Elections are scheduled for September in Berlin, Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Polls suggest the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), whose leader has pledged to restore relations with Russia, could win a majority in Saxony-Anhalt and even take power.

The sources said the Russian campaigns are aimed at polarizing the political climate and discrediting the ruling conservative Christian Democratic Party and its coalition partner the SPD, as well as the Greens and the Free Democrats.

The Russian embassy did not respond to a Reuters request for comment, but Moscow regularly denies involvement in disinformation campaigns against the West. Sources said German authorities are confident that the disinformation campaigns are being centrally orchestrated from Russia, using various companies.

The disinformation campaigns use social media to spread videos, mostly in English, that feature the logos of reputable media outlets, including the BBC and German broadcaster ARD. The material includes misleading accusations against local politicians, ranging from embezzlement to violence and sexual crimes.

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