Moldova exposes viral fake AI video showing soldiers firing at 'Russian troops'
Photo: Moldova's Ministry of Defense warns of fake video showing "Russian soldiers" being shot (Getty Images)
The Ministry of Defense of Moldova has warned about a fake video spreading on social media. The footage allegedly shows soldiers shooting at "Russian troops" during the Fire Shield military exercises, reports Newsmaker.
The Ministry of Defense said the video, linked to the ongoing Fire Shield drills in Moldova, is false. The footage has no connection to this year's exercises.
According to the ministry, the video circulating on Telegram contains AI-generated scenes. It shows participants allegedly firing at targets resembling Russian soldiers. The video also includes clips from past international exercises.
"These video materials have no relation to this year’s exercises. The planes, parachute jumps, terrain features, and other elements in the video do not reflect the reality of the Fire Shield 2025 exercises," the ministry said.
The ministry believes the fake videos aim to spread fear, undermine trust in state institutions, and destabilize society.
Military exercises in Moldova
The Fire Shield drills run from August 4 to 19. They involve soldiers from Moldova's National Army, along with Romanian and American troops.
The exercises take place at National Army training centers. Military vehicles can be seen moving on roads across the country.
Earlier, Alexandru Musteata, Director of the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova, said Russia has prepared plans to destabilize Moldova.
Moscow allegedly intends to interfere in the country's presidential elections and disrupt a referendum on European integration. Musteata said that in 2023, Moldova intercepted a record level of Russian intelligence activity.
Recently, the so-called "Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic" called on Russia for "protection against Moldova."
