Ukrainian Students Spearhead European Campaign Against Russian Disinformation
In May 2025, a wave of student-led initiatives will sweep across major European cities, carrying a potent message: Ukraine stands as a shield for European values, and truth is the strongest weapon against disinformation. Organized by the Ukrainian Leadership Academy, the "Ukraine is the Shield of the EU. Strengthen it with Truth" campaign aims to counter the pervasive influence of Russian propaganda and solidify the bond between Ukraine and the European Union. This campaign underscores the critical role Ukraine plays in defending not only its own sovereignty but also the democratic principles that underpin European security.
The campaign comes at a time when the information war waged by the Kremlin continues unabated. Russia’s relentless dissemination of fake news, manipulation of narratives, and distortion of facts seeks to erode trust between Ukraine and its European allies. The Ukrainian Leadership Academy, recognizing the urgent need to combat this disinformation onslaught, has conceived this campaign as a powerful antidote. By engaging directly with European citizens, the student volunteers aim to bolster Europe’s resilience to disinformation and showcase the unwavering commitment of Ukrainian youth to a future anchored in truth and democratic values.
The heart of the campaign lies in a series of interactive events planned in nine major European cities, strategically chosen to maximize reach and impact. From Wrocław to Prague, the campaign will unfold over a week in May, offering a diverse range of engagement opportunities. Central to these events is the "Shield of the EU" installation, a symbolic art piece representing Ukraine’s steadfast resolve and its solidarity with Europe. This visually compelling installation serves as a powerful reminder of the shared values and interconnected destinies of Ukraine and the EU.
Complementing the artistic expression is an online quiz designed to assess participants’ understanding of information hygiene and their susceptibility to disinformation tactics. This interactive element aims to raise awareness about the insidious nature of propaganda and equip individuals with the critical thinking skills needed to navigate the complex information landscape. Furthermore, the campaign provides opportunities for direct dialogue between European citizens and Ukrainian student leaders, fostering personal connections and amplifying the voices of a generation shaping Ukraine’s future. These young leaders represent the vibrant heart of Ukraine’s democratic aspirations and offer a compelling counter-narrative to the Kremlin’s distorted portrayal.
The campaign’s itinerary spans a week in May, starting in Wrocław and Vienna on May 3rd and culminating in Prague on May 9th. Other cities included in the campaign are Brussels, Mechelen, Strasbourg, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Munich. The events are strategically scheduled to coincide with Europe Day celebrations, amplifying the message of unity and shared values. The diverse range of locations underscores the campaign’s ambition to reach a broad European audience and foster a continent-wide conversation about the importance of truth and democratic resilience.
The "Ukraine is the Shield of the EU" campaign is not merely an act of solidarity; it is a strategic initiative to defend the very foundations of European democracy. By highlighting the interconnectedness of Ukrainian and European security, the campaign underscores the importance of continued support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. This campaign demonstrates the proactive role Ukrainian youth are playing in shaping not only their own country’s future but also the future of Europe. It serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against disinformation is a shared responsibility and that truth, coupled with active engagement, is the most effective shield against the erosion of democratic values. The campaign’s message is clear: protecting democracy requires vigilance, critical thinking, and unwavering support for those who stand on the frontlines defending freedom and truth.