Our Weapon Is Truth? The Digital Frontlines of the War in Ukraine

Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a sophisticated battle has been fought on multiple digital battlefields. In the era of hybrid warfare, social media, intelligence, and cybersecurity are as important frontlines as those on the ground. The Kremlin’s information warfare operations, which had stunned the world in recent conflicts, from the Donbas to Syria, all the way to the 2016 US Presidential elections, were met by an unprecedented response in Ukraine. Ukrainian president Zelensky, a former media personality turned politician, has successfully used digital platforms to counter Russian narratives and rally international support. But is a viral tweet or an engaging livestream on Instagram enough to help win a war?

Speakers:
Gabriele Cosentino, Visiting Assistant Professor, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, American University in Cairo.

Ambassador Karim Haggag, Professor of Practice and Director of Middle East Studies, Department of Public Policy and Administration, American University in Cairo.

Moderator:
Khaled Ezzelarab, Associate Professor of Practice, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, American University in Cairo