The role of digital technologies in US information operations in the post-Soviet space

This article examines the importance and role of digital technologies in conducting information operations (IO) by the United States of America in the post-Soviet space. The research includes an analysis of the theoretical foundations of information operations, their place and importance in modern geopolitics, as well as their impact on international relations. Special attention is paid to the methods of information operations, including disinformation, targeted cyber attacks, manipulation of public opinion through social networks, media resources and artificial intelligence technologies. The strategies of the United States in the post-Soviet space are considered in detail, in which information operations act as one of the key tools for achieving geopolitical goals. The article also provides a detailed analysis of the tactics and mechanisms of influence used within the framework of AI, including informational and psychological effects on target audiences, the introduction of narratives aimed at forming a certain public opinion, as well as technological aspects of conducting cyber operations. Content analysis has been applied to identify ways of manipulating Western public consciousness while creating an "enemy image" of Russia. The information technologies used for information operations are classified into groups. The article presents an analysis of the attitude of post-Soviet countries to the implementation of the United States IO. The article is based on modern research, official US documents, and official statements by representatives of the Russian Federation and Belarus. After the collapse of the USSR, the United States assumed the role of hegemon, and claimed the right to interfere in the internal affairs of other states. Washington has shown interest in persuading the former Soviet republics to its side. Fearing a direct confrontation with Russia and China, which share a sphere of influence in the post-Soviet space, the United States began to use less visible methods such as information operations. Information operations based on the use of advanced information technologies developed in the United States have made it possible to have a significant impact on the post-Soviet space. Due to the fact that the Central Asian region is mainly within the sphere of influence of China, the United States has directed more efforts towards Ukraine and Georgia. By intelligently influencing the public's consciousness, manipulating information, and supporting opponents, they managed to spoil the relations of these countries with Russia and lead to a state of armed conflict.

information operations, digital technologies, cyber operation, disinformation, social media, USA, hybrid warfare, Cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, information wars