Russia is expanding its information and intelligence influence in Mexico
Russian media and special services have significantly stepped up their activities in Mexico since the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine. According to the Centre for Countering Disinformation, the propaganda channels RT and Sputnik have expanded their presence in the country and are actively spreading anti-American and anti-Ukrainian narratives.
American diplomats call the increase in influence ‘sudden and aggressive.’ Its goal is to undermine trust between Mexico and the United States. One of the key fakes was the fabrication that ‘Ukrainians and Americans are recruiting Mexican and Colombian cartels for the war against Russia.’ This narrative has been picked up by local politicians and some media outlets, which is in line with the Kremlin's strategy to discredit support for Ukraine.
At the same time, the Doppelgänger (“The Double”), campaign continues. Its goal is to distort news about the war, stir up anti-Western sentiment, and weaken Washington's position in the region. Russian materials appear on local platforms, including the website of the Mexican Journalists' Club, which regularly publishes content prepared by state media in Russia and Cuba. Such cooperation allows Russian messages to integrate more easily into the local information space.
Lectures and training sessions with RT representatives are periodically held at the club's premises. They are presented as professional events for journalists and an ‘alternative source of information.’ This not only whitewashes propaganda, but also legitimises it among the audience.
The Kremlin actively supplements its informational influence with intelligence. After the invasion began, Russia started sending more and more experienced special services personnel to Mexico under diplomatic cover. According to the CSD, Moscow is combining information, political and intelligence tools to strengthen anti-American sentiment, undermine support for Ukraine and increase its own presence in the region.
