2025-04
Date of Publication: September 08, 2025

Authors:

  • Anna Romandash

Abstract

In this publication, Technology and Human Rights Fellow Anna Romandash examines Russia’s use of hybrid warfare against Ukraine, which blended cyberattacks, disinformation, economic coercion, and political subversion well before the 2022 full-scale invasion. The piece argues that Canada and other democracies must draw lessons from Ukraine’s experience by strengthening cybersecurity, media literacy, and international cooperation to counter similar hybrid threats.

 

 
The publication touches on key points such as: 
 
  • Hybrid warfare is now a dominant threat in modern conflicts, blending military action with cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion. Russia’s campaign in Ukraine is a textbook example of this evolving threat.
  • Russia's operations began well before 2022, meaning that non-military operations, such as the power grid attacks, can be escalatory precursors to military attacks and ultimately combine to be used in hybrid warfare. Examples include the 2015 power grid attack and the 2017 NetPetya cyberattack, which inflicted billions in global damages.
  • Disinformation and narrative warfare have been central to Russia's strategy, using fake news, social media manipulation, and propaganda to destabilize Ukraine and influence Western audiences.
  • Canada is not immune to many of these threat vectors. Foreign-linked actors have attempted to interfere in Canadian elections, polarize debates (e.g., during the COVID-19 pandemic), and amplify extremist groups.
  • Ukraine’s response showcases best practices: integrating tech partnerships, enhancing cyber defense, proactive communication by leadership, and civil society-driven media literacy campaigns.
  • Authoritarian states worldwide are studying and adapting Russia's hybrid playbook, making it a global security concern that extends beyond Europe and North America.
  • Canada must enhance cyber infrastructure, media literacy, and legislative safeguards to counter foreign influence and disinformation. Stronger collaboration with allies on intelligence-sharing and rapid response is essential.
  • Policy action must focus on prevention, resilience, and rapid countermeasures to maintain trust in institutions and protect democratic processes.