In a recent speech at the United Nations, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham highlighted the growing threat posed by Russian disinformation campaigns targeting the United Kingdom. Describing the Kremlin’s actions as an “industrial-scale assault” on the UK’s information environment, Burnham pointed to the use of automated bot networks and fake websites designed to spread falsehoods, interfere in elections, foment social discord, and undermine community relations. In response, he announced the establishment of a National Centre for Information Defence aimed at countering such hostile information operations.

Burnham’s remarks echo longstanding concerns about the erosion of trust in traditional information sources within Western democracies. Former US President Barack Obama previously warned of an “epistemological crisis” as polarization and radicalization increasingly challenge societies’ ability to distinguish truth from falsehood. The prime minister’s emphasis on Russian state-sponsored disinformation underscores the urgency of addressing these vulnerabilities to protect democratic processes.

However, experts note that focusing exclusively on external threats only presents part of the picture. Analysts have found that much of the disinformation circulating around racially aggravated incidents in the UK originates from outside Britain, with a significant proportion traced back to the United States. Several widely shared social media posts, including some disseminated by Elon Musk—owner of the platform X (formerly Twitter)—have promoted divisive narratives about Britain’s social and political stability.

Musk’s platform has served as a critical amplifier for far-right groups within the UK, fueling activities that include intimidation and harassment of migrants and asylum seekers. Notably, Musk spoke at a rally organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson last year, calling for the removal of the Labour government. Earlier this year, Robinson traveled to Moscow on a trip funded by the Musk Foundation, describing the visit as an opportunity to witness “the beauty of a civilised society.”

Burnham’s focus on the Kremlin’s role likely reflects the complexities of UK-U.S. relations, as confronting disinformation linked to American figures or platforms could complicate diplomatic ties. Former US President Donald Trump, a prolific source of online misinformation, remains a delicate subject within transatlantic discussions. Consequently, the prime minister chose to concentrate on external Russian interference while not directly addressing domestic actors or the role of US-based technology companies.

Security experts argue that a comprehensive strategy to safeguard British democracy must address both foreign-directed disinformation and the domestic factors enabling it to thrive. The digital platforms that facilitate the rapid spread of divisive content are largely controlled by US companies, and certain domestic extremist groups benefit from these channels. Addressing this multifaceted challenge will require coordinated efforts that go beyond countering foreign propaganda to include managing the national information ecosystem and its vulnerabilities.