Storm-1516
Storm 1516
A persistent Russian information-operation method that manufactures source material, launders it through false news infrastructure and amplifies it across platforms. VIGINUM analysed 77 operations through March 2025 and documented activity targeting elections and political figures in France, the United States and Germany.
VIGINUM's later reporting attributes Storm-1516 to GRU Unit 29155 with support from the Moscow-based Center for Geopolitical Expertise. Its documented targets include Emmanuel Macron and 2026 Paris mayoral candidate Pierre-Yves Bournazel. VIGINUM said the Bournazel operation reached only a limited audience, an important constraint when judging impact.
Elections
People
Evidence Library
Official reportVIGINUM, French SGDSNMay 6, 2025
Analysis of the Russian information operation Storm-1516OriginalArchive pending
Official reportVIGINUM, French SGDSNFebruary 6, 2026
Storm-1516: foreign digital interference operation targeting Emmanuel MacronOriginalArchive pending
Official reportVIGINUM, French SGDSNJune 11, 2026
Protecting public debate from foreign digital interference during France's March 2026 municipal electionsOriginalArchive pending