Sanctions Target Russian Agencies for Spreading False Rumours Amid Princess of Wales’s Cancer Battle
The UK Government has announced new sanctions targeting a Russian disinformation network, the Doppelganger group, accused of spreading false rumours about Princess Kate following her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. Comprised of six Russian agencies, this network allegedly aimed to create discord among nations supporting Ukraine, using misinformation about the Princess of Wales as part of their strategy.
The Foreign Office described the Doppelganger group as a “vast malign online network” intent on disrupting democratic processes through fake news. Foreign Secretary David Lammy denounced the campaign, stating, “We will not tolerate your lies and interference, and we are coming after you,” in a direct message to the Kremlin.
These sanctions, informed by research from Cardiff University security experts, reaffirm the UK’s stance on protecting public figures from exploitation in disinformation campaigns. In September, Princess Kate shared an emotional update on her recovery, announcing she had completed chemotherapy and expressing gratitude for public support. Appearing with Prince William and their children, she reflected, “I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my treatment. The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family.”
