PLATFORM – European citizens have, as of today, a new instrument launched by the European Commission that helps them identify fake news. Called EUvsDisinfo, its core objective is to increase public awareness and understand the Kremlin’s disinformation operations, and also to help citizens in Europe and beyond develop resistance to media manipulation. Using data analysis and media monitoring services in 15 languages, EUvsDisinfo identifies, compiles, and exposes disinformation cases originating in pro-Kremlin media that are spread across Europe.
PARLIAMENT – The Romanian Defense Minister, the Social Democrat Vasile Dîncu, resigned on Monday, claiming it was impossible to work with president Klaus Iohannis. The Liberal PM, Nicolae Ciuca, is the new interim defense minister. Also on Monday, Minister Dîncu was expected to appear before the Chamber of Deputies to explain his statements over the resolution of the Ukrainian conflict. In a TV show, the Defense Minister had said that negotiations with Russia were the only way to ensure peace in Ukraine. President Iohannis subsequently told Dîncu that „Ukrainians are paying a blood price in this war and we must all come to terms with the idea that only Ukraine can decide when, how and what it is negotiating. This is our official position and the official viewpoint of the European Union”, the president also said.
