The Claim:
A false claim about Ukraine’s First Lady buying a limited edition Bugatti sports car has been posted to several highly questionable websites along with fake receipts and de-contextualized photos that are being used to support this claim. The false claim along with fake images are being amplified by pro-Kremlin influencers on social media.
The Facts:
The invoice used to support this false claim contains several inconsistencies, including incorrect formatting of tax related information, misspelling of addresses and other legally required information on a formal invoice. The image
One of the many platforms that has published this false claim is a French language website called Verite Cachee France. A WHOIS search of the domain demonstrates that the domain was registered on June 22, 2024 – indicating that this could be part of a broader, well organized campaign. The domain and the nature of the news posted to it bear close similarities to the Russian Doppelganger information operation.
Narrative Context:
The claim that Olena Zelenska bought a $4.5 million Bugatti Turbillon appears to be disinformation that aligns with Kremlin objectives to undermine Ukraine’s leadership and delegitimize their cause. Such narratives aim to portray Ukrainian officials as hypocritical and corrupt, indulging in luxury while their citizens suffer. This tactic seeks to erode international support for Ukraine by casting doubt on the integrity of its leaders.
In September 2023, a similar story emerged, falsely claiming that Ms. Zelenska had gone on a shopping spree in New York City.
This false story has been re-posted to MSN and Microsoft Start from a platform called “Al Bawaba” without any indication of its false nature, offering false credibility and threatening to amplify it MSN’s audiences.
