Kremlin relies on new strategies: How Russia tries to influence Ukrainians abroad.

How Russia has changed its tactics towards Ukrainian exiles

According to Espreso.tv: The research of the project 'Algorithms of Lies' at Espreso shows: After the large-scale invasion, Moscow has adjusted its methods to influence Ukrainians abroad. The focus is now seemingly on Ukrainian organizations, church networks, and media that are supposed to manipulate the diaspora.

Currently, over 4.3 million Ukrainians in the EU enjoy temporary protection – most of them in Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. These countries have become the main points of contact for war refugees. At the same time, the Moscow-linked Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC-MP) has established nearly 200 new parishes in 15 European states since the beginning of the war. A significant portion of these parishes is funded by the pro-Russian oligarch Vadym Novynskyi, raising questions about their true intentions.

Project leader Andriy Smoliy explained: 'This woman with a Soviet field cap, red star on her head, and pictures of 'grandfathers on sticks' in her hands.'

This illustrates that some of these church institutions deliberately use Soviet symbols to create a certain image among Ukrainians abroad. In Poland, however, the Orthodox Church of Ukraine (OCU) has established 11 pastoral stations for displaced Ukrainians – a sign of active support from independent Ukrainian Orthodoxy.

New Russian influence and challenges for the diaspora

Since 2026, Russia has increasingly relied on cover organizations with a Ukrainian facade to influence Ukrainians in Europe. According to the study, 31% of Ukrainian migrants in the EU plan not to return even after the war ends – an indication of their ongoing integration. Moreover, at least 180,000 euros have flowed to the KREATIV HAUS in Germany from the Russian Pravfond, whose head Alexander Udaltsov is subject to EU sanctions.

Andriy Smoliy added: 'Our OSINT experts have identified dozens of educational centers in Europe.'

This confirms the active involvement of organizations trying to influence the Ukrainian community abroad. These centers could become important channels for the Kremlin to spread Russian propaganda narratives among those seeking refuge.

The collected evidence shows: Moscow has fundamentally changed its influence strategy towards Ukrainians abroad. Pseudo-Ukrainian groups, churches, and educational institutions are becoming increasingly open. Ukrainians outside the country should therefore remain vigilant and critically question information from such sources.

This development emphasizes the importance of a conscious approach to information for the diaspora – especially in times of war, where disinformation can have serious consequences. Given the many challenges in exile, it is crucial to maintain contact with trustworthy sources and organizations that can provide real help in this difficult time.