Center for Countering Disinformation: Videos, allegedly featuring famous Hollywood actors calling for pressure on Ukraine, AI-generated
The Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) debunks provocative deepfake videos allegedly featuring famous Hollywood actors calling for pressure on Ukraine for "peace on Russia's terms." A review reveals that the videos were generated by artificial intelligence.
"Russia organized a disinformation campaign on social media using the hashtag #HollywoodagainstZelenskyy. It included the distribution of fake videos purportedly from Hollywood actors calling for pressure on Ukraine for 'peace on Russia's terms,'" the CCD reported on its Telegram channel on Wednesday.
It is noted that the fake videos feature actors Nikki Blonsky, Jon Seda, and Gabriella Pizzolo, among others. However, there is no confirmation of these claims. "These videos are not found on verified celebrity accounts, but were distributed by anonymous accounts without followers or biographies. A check using deepfake detection services indicates that the videos were generated by artificial intelligence," the CCD emphasized.
Researchers estimate that the campaign is part of a broader online influence network linked to the Kremlin. The campaign's tactics are similar to those of the Matryoshka bot farm, which disguises fake news as legitimate sources—media outlets, government agencies, or public figures. First, a small group of anonymous accounts launches a fake, which is then picked up by a network of bots, creating the illusion of widespread use.
"Such deepfake videos are created to promote Kremlin-friendly narratives about 'war fatigue' and Ukraine's alleged 'intransigence,' exploiting the credibility of public figures. The campaign is synchronized with diplomatic processes and discussions about ways to end the war. Its strategic goal is to weaken international support for Ukraine," the CCD emphasized.
