Disinformation Campaign Targets Macron and Merz Over Alleged Cocaine Use on Ukraine Trip
A series of unsubstantiated claims alleging the use of cocaine by French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a recent trip to Ukraine appear to have originated from a French social media account, according to an investigation by fact-checkers and media outlets.
The rumors, which spread rapidly online, suggested that Macron and Merz were caught using drugs on a train to Kyiv last weekend. However, the claims were quickly debunked as lacking any credible evidence or supporting documentation.
“This is a classic example of a coordinated disinformation campaign designed to undermine the credibility of Western leaders,” said media analyst Sarah Rothschild. “The goal is to sow doubt and division at a time when unity and resolve are crucial for supporting Ukraine.”
The initial post that sparked the allegations was traced back to a French social media account with a history of spreading misinformation. Analysts believe the account, which has a relatively small following, may have been part of a broader effort to discredit Macron and Merz’s involvement in the Ukraine crisis.
“We’ve seen these kinds of tactics used before, where false narratives are amplified through coordinated networks of social media accounts,” said digital security expert Alex Stamos. “It’s a cheap and effective way to generate outrage and erode public trust in leadership.”
Both the French and German governments have strongly denied the allegations, calling them “completely baseless” and “a shameful attempt to undermine our support for Ukraine.”
Fact-checkers and media outlets have thoroughly investigated the claims and found no evidence to substantiate them. Macron and Merz’s schedules and activities during the trip have been accounted for, and there have been no reports of any drug-related incidents.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against misinformation and the importance of verifying the accuracy of online claims, especially during times of geopolitical tension. As the war in Ukraine continues, experts warn that similar attempts to sow discord and distrust are likely to persist.
