Attributing “own goals” to the German establishment that supposedly boost the AfD

What it claims

Actions by leading German media and federal government politicians are cast as a series of strategic blunders that only increase the popularity of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Press criticism of the right-wing and statements by the Chancellor are portrayed as “modern-day madness” that inevitably leads to the AfD gaining absolute power in specific federal states. Any public opposition to radical forces is ridiculed as counterproductive activity that turns the party's opponents into its unwitting helpers.

Target audience

Examples (paraphrased)

We paraphrase rather than quote: propaganda's exact wording is built to spread, so we carry the claim and not the craft. Each example cites the post it came from.

• The Chancellor, the SPD, and leading outlets like Spiegel are doing everything possible to help the AfD come to power in Saxony-Anhalt.

  UKR LEAKS (German), 20 Aug 2026 · Archived copy

• Media attempts to portray AfD politicians as dangerous only increase their popularity, turning criticism into free advertising.

  UKR LEAKS (German), 20 Aug 2026 · Archived copy

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Goal

Deepen cynicism regarding the ability of democratic institutions and media to counter radicalisation, creating an impression of the AfD's inevitable victory.

Techniques used

• Name Calling or LabelingUsing labels like “modern-day madness” to describe the actions of the government and the press.
• Exaggeration or MinimisationClaims of the AfD's “absolute power” as a foregone conclusion due to opponents' mistakes.

The real grievance it exploits

Dissatisfaction among some voters with federal government policies and a feeling that traditional media ignore or demonise their views.

How to counter

• Technique exposure: Note the “inversion” tactic: any criticism of radical movements is presented as proof of their strength and the failure of democratic institutions.

Sources (all time)

• RT DETier 126,429 subscribers
  1 post · 21 Aug 2026

  • 21 Aug · t.me/rt_de/80749
• UKR LEAKS (German)Tier 332,496 subscribers
  1 post · 20 Aug 2026

  • 20 Aug · Archived copy