Russian state media has escalated its smear campaign against European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, accusing her of deliberate GPS jamming on her plane. The allegations, which have drawn ridicule within Russia, are part of a broader strategy by the Kremlin to undermine her reputation amid the ongoing Ukraine war, intensifying geopolitical tensions between Moscow and the European Union.
The accusation comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West over the war in Ukraine, with European leaders increasingly condemning Moscow’s actions. von der Leyen, who has been vocal in her criticism of Russia’s invasion, has become a focal point for Russian disinformation efforts, which seek to portray her as a Western puppet or a figurehead of imperialist aggression.
Analysts suggest that the GPS jamming claim is likely a fabrication, designed to distract from Russia’s actual military operations and to divert attention from its domestic issues. However, such narratives serve to deepen the political divisions and further isolate Russia from Western allies, reinforcing the perception of the Kremlin as an authoritarian regime engaged in aggressive behavior.