Is pro-Kremlin Disinformation Effective? Evidence from Ukraine

Can residents of Ukraine discern between pro-Kremlin disinformation and true statements? Moreover, which claims are more likely to be believed, by audiences? We present the results from two surveys carried out in 2019—one online other face-to-face—that address these questions Ukraine, where Russian government its supporters have heavily targeted campaigns. find that, on average, respondents can distinguish stories disinformation. However, many Ukrainians remain uncertain about a variety claims’ truthfulness. show that topic claim matters. Disinformation economy is believed than politics, historical experience, or military. Additionally, with partisan ethnolinguistic ties Russia believe across topics. Our findings underscore importance evaluating multiple types country examining target audiences.