Russia launched an information and psychological operation in Nikopol using fake leaflets about an offensive

Russians are distributing propaganda materials in Nikopol containing threats of an upcoming offensive and calls to prepare for occupation. 

This was reported by the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) on April 5, 2026. In the leaflets, the invaders promise to “cross the Dnipro River within two weeks,” advise against using public transportation, and urge people to stockpile food—all part of an enemy information campaign.

Ivan Bazilyuk, head of the Nikopol Regional Military Administration, emphasized that these statements are lies aimed at disorienting the population and justifying future crimes by the Russian Federation against civilians. Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Crisis Management Center, noted that the enemy’s key objective is to spread fear and announce an escalation of terror. Since Russian FPV drone pilots regularly attack civilians, residents are urged to rely exclusively on official statements from local authorities and the military.

The information attack on Nikopol is taking place amid constant shelling of the city, including a recent strike on a market that resulted in deaths and injuries to over 20 people. At the same time, the Defense Forces continue to effectively destroy the occupiers’ equipment in the southern sector, including rare radar stations and multiple-launch rocket systems. The goal of the disinformation campaign is to create panic in frontline areas to complicate logistics and evacuation efforts. Citizens are asked to remain calm and trust only verified sources of information.

Russian propaganda is spreading a new wave of disinformation in an attempt to disrupt the evacuation of civilians from frontline areas in Donetsk Oblast.