British intelligence has acknowledged that Russia sought to interfere in both the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the Brexit referendum through social media and television, though officials insist such efforts did not alter the outcomes. The head of MI5 clarified that while Kremlin-backed influence operations targeted both votes, they fell short of changing results, a stance aligning with recent political discussions. Concerns over prolonged debate on the issue have been raised, with warnings that extended focus could inadvertently bolster Russian propaganda. The remarks follow days of public scrutiny over foreign interference in democratic processes.
Spy chief Ken McCallum said Kremlin had attempted to influence 2016 vote through social media and TV reportsRussia did try to interfere in the Brexit referendum through social media and television reports, the head of MI5 said on Tuesday, but he added that did not mean the Kremlin had any impact on the result.Ken McCallum endorsed comments made by Andy Burnham, who raised the issue over the past two days, though he said continuing to debate it had given the Kremlin a needless propaganda victory. Continue reading...
