DISINFO: Coronavirus turned the EU into a symbol of stupidity and failure
SUMMARY
The coronavirus story buried Europe’s soft power. In the eyes of the whole world, it turned into the symbol of failure, catastrophe, stupidity, and irresponsibility. Initially, EU countries did not take the infection seriously, then they ran to cancel fundamental citizens’ rights and freedoms including the freedom of movement. As a result, thousands died, the economy crashed, and a good Europe’s image with it. Europe started copying the Chinese experience of combatting the pandemic and accepted humanitarian assistance from Russia, Cuba, Egypt, and China. Europe has turned into an ill person who needs care and help. The times of Europe’s attractiveness are over. A sane person cannot consider a sick, ageing body to be a peak of historical development.
RESPONSE
This is an example of recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narratives about alleged EU disintegration and collapse because of coronavirus and Russian / Chinese superiority in combatting the outbreak. The European Union is supporting the Member States in addressing the crisis and mitigating the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. To cushion the blow to people’s livelihoods and the economy, the European Commission has adopted a comprehensive economic response to the outbreak, applied the full flexibility of the EU fiscal rules, has revised its State Aid rules and proposed to set up a EUR 37 billion Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative to provide liquidity to small businesses and the health care sector. To support scientific research into the COVID-19, the European Commission earmarked 47,5 million EUR for shortlisted research projects that can improve epidemiology and public health, including preparedness and response to outbreaks. The EU has also created the first-ever stockpile of medical equipment. Read more about the EU's response here and here. Read similar propaganda cases alleging that the coronavirus outbreak will cause the dissolution of the EU and NATO and that the Baltic States may not survive the economic shock of COVID-19 pandemic.