Russia’s Shadow Campaign in Bolivia: A Deep Dive into Disinformation
Recent revelations expose a concerted effort by Russia to influence Bolivian politics, specifically aiming to bolster the electoral prospects of President Luis Arce. A network of operatives, dubbed the “Company” and linked to Russia’s foreign intelligence service (SVR), was deployed to La Paz following a coup attempt in 2024. This intervention highlights a growing trend of Russian influence operations extending into Latin America, raising concerns about democratic integrity across the region.
The Context: Political Instability and a Failed Coup
Bolivia experienced significant political turmoil in 2024 when dissident army officers, led by former General Juan José Zúñiga, attempted a coup. This followed years of tension between former President Evo Morales and his successor, Arce. Some observers even suggested Arce may have instigated the coup to rally support before the August 2025 elections. The “Company” arrived in this volatile environment with a clear mission: to facilitate Arce regain control of the narrative and strengthen his position for re-election.
The “Company”: Russia’s Disinformation Network
The operatives dispatched to Bolivia are part of a larger network exposed in Forbidden Stories’ “Propaganda Machine” series. Leaked documents indicate that Arce’s government was considered “friendly” to Russian interests, and any challenge to his leadership was framed as a “threat.” The “Company’s” activities focused on shaping public perception of the coup attempt and ensuring a favorable outcome in the upcoming elections. This isn’t an isolated incident; similar Russian operations have been documented elsewhere, demonstrating a pattern of interference.
Echoes of Past Interference: The 2019 Election
This recent intervention isn’t the first time Russia has been accused of meddling in Bolivian elections. In 2019, a Russian state company reportedly sent around ten “spin doctors” to support then-President Evo Morales during a controversial election. That election was ultimately marred by allegations of fraud, as detailed in an independent audit by the Organization of American States (OAS). The OAS report cited “intentional manipulation” and “serious irregularities,” including hidden servers and falsified signatures, making it impossible to validate the results.
Broader Implications: Russian Influence in Latin America
Russia’s activities in Bolivia are part of a broader strategy to expand its influence in Latin America and the Caribbean. A 2022 CSIS report highlighted Russia’s increasing military and strategic engagement in the region. This includes cultivating relationships with governments and exploiting existing political and economic vulnerabilities. The goal appears to be to establish a foothold in the Western Hemisphere and challenge U.S. Influence.
Did you know? The OAS audit of the 2019 Bolivian election found evidence of data being redirected to hidden servers, allowing for manipulation of the vote count.
The Fragility of Bolivian Democracy
The failed coup attempt and subsequent Russian intervention underscore the fragility of Bolivia’s democracy. Divided opinions following the coup highlight the deep political divisions within the country. Understanding this context is crucial for anyone seeking to engage with Bolivia and support its democratic institutions.
FAQ
Q: What is the “Company”?
A: The “Company” is a network of experts linked to Russia’s foreign intelligence service (SVR) involved in global disinformation campaigns.
Q: What was the goal of the Russian operatives in Bolivia?
A: Their mission was to help President Luis Arce regain control of the narrative surrounding the 2024 coup attempt and strengthen his electoral position.
Q: Has Russia interfered in Bolivian elections before?
A: Yes, in 2019, a Russian state company allegedly sent operatives to support then-President Evo Morales.
Q: What did the OAS report on the 2019 election locate?
A: The report detailed “intentional manipulation” and “serious irregularities,” including falsified signatures and hidden servers.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about foreign interference in elections by consulting reports from organizations like the OAS and CSIS.
Explore more about international relations and political influence on our website. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and in-depth analysis.
