It could have been a meticulously planned and perfectly executed operation for Russian intelligence operatives in Canada. But it was actually a major blunder of the Canadian government and parliamentarians that the Russians have exploited with gusto.

The Russian propaganda and disinformation apparatus got a much need adrenalin boost two weeks ago. Yaroslav Hunka, 98, a Canadian citizen of Ukrainian heritage, who had fought in the SS 14th Waffen Division during WWII, (implicated in the killing of Jews and Poles) received unanimous applause as a special guest in the Canadian Parliament during a recent visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Apparently, no one present in the House of Commons was aware of Hunka’s background. Anthony Rota, the speaker of the H of C introduced Hunka as “a Ukrainian hero, a Canadian hero”. Amongst the enthusiastic applauders was Zelenskyy. Photos of the occasion have been displayed world-wide, especially by the Russian news outlets.

The damage was extensive and Moscow used the opportunity to recharge its PsyOps batteries. The National Post quotes Marcus Kolga: “…these propagandists will continue using this like a hammer for weeks and months, perhaps even for years to come.”

Kolga also pointed out the fake Ukrainian stamp depicting the face of Hunka posted by the Russian embassy in London. This type of cheap, clumsy fabrication probably shows the disdain that the Russian PsyOps specialists have for any Western exposure of their disinformation. Although the Russians deleted the tweet, even incompetently executed Russian fake news attempts still have at least some traction with targeted audiences.


(Pikemalt saab lugeda Eesti Elu 6. oktoobri 2023 paber- või digilehest eestielu.ca)

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