La « polyphonie » de désinformation infiltrée par la propagande russe dans les médias moldaves
The “polyphony” of disinformation infiltrated by Russian propaganda in the Moldovan media

Summary/Abstract: This article investigates the discursive strategies used by Russian propaganda within politically engaged Moldovan media outlets. In the context of increasing geopolitical tensions and information warfare, the study explores how pro-Russian narratives are constructed, adapted, and disseminated in local media to influence public opinion and shape political orientation. Based on a corpus of articles published between 2021 and 2023 in Moldovan newspapers with known political affiliations, the research adopts a qualitative methodology grounded in discourse analysis and critical media studies. The main discursive strategies identified in our corpus – the victimization of Russia, the demonization of the West, the reactivation of historical myths, the use of emotionally charged vocabulary, the manipulation of facts through omission or distortion, amplification of socio-political tensions – are part of a logic of influence and persuasion based on repetition, appeals to emotion, and the systematic disqualification of ideological opponents. This type of discourse aims not only to sway public opinion, but also to undermine confidence in the national and international institutions that embody democratic and European values. The analysis identifies key rhetorical mechanisms such as enemy construction, emotional polarization, appeal to traditional values, and strategic ambiguity. These strategies are often employed to discredit Western institutions, promote Russian foreign policy interests, and legitimize local political actors aligned with pro-Kremlin views. The study also highlights how linguistic choices, narrative structures, and selective framing contribute to reinforcing ideological bias and fostering division within Moldovan society. By examining these discursive tools, the article contributes to a better understanding of how propaganda adapts to different cultural and linguistic environments. The findings are relevant not only for media scholars and linguists, but also for policymakers seeking to counter disinformation and strengthen media literacy in transitional democracies facing hybrid threats.

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