A deepfake video targeting U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller fabricates information about military targets in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, raising concerns about misinformation and disinformation amidst escalating tensions.
Deepfake Targets U.S. Official Amid Ukraine-Russia Conflict
On May 31, 2024, a fabricated video featuring U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller surfaced online. The deepfake, which manipulated actual footage of Miller, falsely suggested that the Russian city of Belgorod, near Ukraine’s border, was a legitimate target for U.S.-supported Ukrainian strikes. The video exhibited clear signs of manipulation, such as lip-sync issues and changing shirt and tie colors.
The deception emerged a day after the U.S. indicated that Ukraine could use American weapons for limited strikes inside Russia. The video claimed Belgorod had few civilians left and was primarily a military zone, implying Western support for indiscriminate attacks—a falsehood. U.S. officials expressed concern about the origins and potential impact of the video, particularly regarding Russian disinformation.
Belgorod, home to 340,000 residents, has faced some Ukrainian attacks, but its population has not been evacuated. The misleading video circulated on social media, prompting responses from Russian officials.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, traveling in Eastern Europe, highlighted efforts to counter Russian disinformation during his visit.
