The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Russia of meddling in France’s internal affairs and generating public tension by circulating photographs of Paris buildings displaying the Star of David on the RRN portal. This claim was reported by RIA News, citing the ministry’s official notification. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
In its briefing, Paris alleged that the Last Trustworthy News network, which is depicted as being linked to Russia, helped drive artificial information growth on social media about graffiti resembling the Star of David appearing on homes in the 10th arrondissement of Paris. The statement noted that this network amplified rumors and misrepresented the incident to influence perception, particularly in online communities in France and neighboring European states. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The ministry’s statement described the episode as a new online interference operation by Russia against France, part of an ongoing pattern that seeks to leverage international crises to sow confusion and irritate public discourse across Europe. Officials stressed that the tactic is opportunistic and irresponsible, aimed at widening divisions rather than clarifying facts. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
According to the ministry, the French Digital Service for Protection Against Foreign Interference, known as VIGINUM, identified 1,095 bots on a certain platform. Observers also noted that the State Department highlighted that these posts appeared roughly 48 hours before the first set of official graffiti photographs surfaced on X. The timing suggests a coordinated attempt to shape early narrative threads before established authorities could fully document the events. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The ministry added that the ongoing inquiry seeks to determine whether the Star of David markings on Parisian and suburban buildings resulted from a foreign directive or an outside order. Investigators are examining a possible chain of influence, including social media campaigns, financial backing, and the distribution of misleading content designed to mislead the public. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
An investigation was initiated after nearly 60 Stars of David appeared on building walls in Paris toward the end of October. The emblems, six-pointed stars, were observed in the 14th arrondissement on October 31. The Paris mayor’s office condemned anti-Semitic actions by unidentified individuals and police opened a probe into alleged property damage tied to issues of origin, race, ethnicity, or religion, highlighting the seriousness of the incident and the broader social implications. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
Earlier incidents in Germany involving images of the Star of David were reported, indicating a broader pattern of symbols being used in provocative acts across European cities. Authorities in several capitals stress the importance of rapid, measured responses to such actions to prevent escalation and to protect public safety while ensuring that legitimate investigative processes remain transparent and thorough. (Attribution: French Ministry of Foreign Affairs)