Czech and Polish PMs Use Cartoon Icons to Counter Russian-Linked Disinformation

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk used popular cartoon characters Krtek and Reksio to push back against a disinformation campaign targeting relations between their countries. The campaign falsely suggested Poland wanted to seize Czech territory, using fake profiles, forged documents and fabricated media reports. Meeting in Bratislava, the leaders rejected the claims and presented the characters as symbols of friendship. Their lighthearted gesture underscored a serious message: fabricated narratives should not divide neighboring allies again.