The relationship between cognitive, information, and hybrid warfare

Abstract

The article provides a comprehensive examination of cognitive warfare as a specific dimension of contemporary political confrontation and explores its relationship with information and hybrid warfare. The relevance of the study is determined by the transformation of contemporary conflicts, in which, alongside traditional military means, influencing human consciousness, perceptions, values, and behavioural attitudes is becoming increasingly important. The aim of the study is to substantiate the essence of cognitive warfare, determine its place within the structure of contemporary conflicts, and analyse the main mechanisms and instruments of cognitive influence. To achieve this aim, general scientific, comparative, and systemic methods, as well as content analysis, were applied. The study establishes that cognitive, information, and hybrid warfare are interconnected but not identical forms of confrontation. Information warfare primarily involves the creation, dissemination, and control of information messages and communication channels, whereas cognitive warfare focuses on the processes of their perception and interpretation, as well as on shaping patterns of thinking, beliefs, and behavioural attitudes. Hybrid warfare integrates information and cognitive mechanisms with military, political, economic, and other instruments of influence. Using the Russian-Ukrainian war as an example, the article examines the practical application of cognitive technologies, including disinformation, narrative manipulation, the use of emotional triggers, digital platforms, and artificial intelligence technologies. It is established that cognitive influence is systemic and long-term in nature and may be aimed not only at changing particular beliefs but also at undermining trust in information, state institutions, and established patterns of interpreting reality. The study substantiates the need for a comprehensive response to cognitive threats through a combination of institutional and technological mechanisms, the development of media literacy and critical thinking, and the strengthening of societal cognitive resilience.