Special information operations against Ukraine as an element of hybrid warfare and ways to their countering

Abstract

The article is devoted to the consideration of special information operations as an element of Russia's hybrid war against Ukraine. The author's definition of special information operations is formulated, their vectors and types are determined. Special attention is paid to identifying possible objects of information influence, as well as characterizing the means, methods and forms of special information operations. In addition, it is stated that the criminal legislation of Ukraine currently covers most forms of posting and dissemination of information with destructive content which is the instrument of special information operations, and the author makes judgments on some reserves for its further improvement. It is concluded that since special information operations are a complex, multistage system of measures, counteraction to them should be based on a comprehensive approach that includes three main strategic areas: 1) counterintelligence measures of special services; 2) measures to implement the state policy in the information sphere; 3) criminal law measures.