Ukraine Maintains Strong Communication with TikTok to Combat Russian Disinformation, But Hashtag Blocking Remains a Challenge
KYIV, UKRAINE – Amidst an escalating information war, Ukraine has established a robust communication channel with the TikTok office, facilitating the swift takedown of accounts and content spreading Russian disinformation. Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, revealed this crucial partnership in a recent interview, emphasizing the platform’s responsiveness and proactive approach to blocking malicious content. This collaborative effort comes as Russia significantly ramps up its disinformation campaign, exploiting the platform’s vast reach and short-form video format.
Kovalenko highlighted the dramatic increase in Russian disinformation efforts on TikTok, noting a fivefold surge in the creation of new accounts propagating pro-Kremlin narratives. The TikTok office, he stated, has reacted positively to these developments, implementing prompt blocking measures on numerous accounts flagged by Ukrainian authorities. Furthermore, TikTok has demonstrably taken proactive steps to independently identify and remove disinformation content without external prompting, showcasing a commitment to platform integrity and combating the spread of harmful narratives. This collaborative approach signifies a crucial step in mitigating the impact of Russian disinformation campaigns, leveraging the platform’s internal mechanisms alongside direct communication with Ukrainian authorities.
However, challenges remain in effectively identifying and blocking disinformation spread through hashtags, a tactic increasingly employed by Russian propagandists. Kovalenko stressed the need for TikTok to develop more robust mechanisms to address this issue, emphasizing the importance of proactive blocking based on specific hashtags used to disseminate false narratives. While discussions regarding hashtag-based blocking are ongoing, a conclusive solution has yet to be implemented, leaving a potential vulnerability for the continued spread of Russian disinformation. The ongoing dialogue between Ukrainian officials and TikTok representatives underscores the commitment to finding effective solutions to this evolving challenge.
Beyond the immediate concerns surrounding hashtag blocking, Kovalenko lauded TikTok’s responsiveness in comparison to other social media platforms. Speaking at the Kyiv International Cybersecurity Forum 2025, he emphasized TikTok’s rapid response to disinformation challenges, exceeding the response times observed on platforms like Google and other social media networks. This proactive approach and swift action underscore TikTok’s recognition of the platform’s vulnerability to manipulation and the importance of safeguarding its user base from harmful content. The collaborative efforts with Ukrainian authorities signify a valuable model for other social media platforms to emulate in addressing the global challenge of online disinformation.
The escalating disinformation campaign underscores the Kremlin’s intensified efforts to manipulate public opinion both within Ukraine and internationally. Key narratives pushed by these campaigns include undermining Ukrainian sovereignty, questioning the legitimacy of the Ukrainian government, and promoting skepticism about Western military aid. These narratives aim to erode domestic resilience within Ukraine and sow discord among its international allies, thereby weakening the country’s ability to defend itself and undermining its global support network. The concerted effort across multiple platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), YouTube Shorts, and TikTok, highlights the sophisticated and multi-pronged approach adopted by Russian disinformation actors.
This surge in disinformation activity coincides with heightened geopolitical tensions and underscores the crucial role of social media platforms in combating the spread of false narratives. The proactive approach taken by TikTok, alongside its robust communication with Ukrainian authorities, stands as a positive example in the ongoing fight against disinformation. However, the ongoing challenges related to hashtag-based blocking and the evolving tactics of disinformation actors necessitate continued vigilance and adaptation. The collaborative effort between governments and social media platforms will be essential in navigating the complex landscape of online information warfare and safeguarding the integrity of democratic discourse. The evolving nature of this challenge calls for ongoing dialogue, innovation, and a shared commitment to combating the manipulation of online information.
