RTL Struggles with Russian AI Trolls on YouTube
amsterdam, maandag, 22 september 2025.
RTL Nieuws is facing a growing problem of Russian AI trolls on YouTube. These trolls post negative and misleading comments under RTL videos, undermining the integrity of the news reports. Dennis van Luling, deputy editor-in-chief of RTL Nieuws, is seeking solutions to this form of disinformation, but the battle against AI-driven trolls proves to be complex and challenging.
The Problem of AI Trolls
RTL Nieuws has recently encountered a rising wave of negative and misleading comments under their videos on YouTube. These comments are often posted by AI-driven trolls with a Russian background, compromising the integrity of the news reports. Dennis van Luling, deputy editor-in-chief of RTL Nieuws, is compelled to find solutions to this form of disinformation. However, the fight against these AI trolls is complex and challenging [2].
Impact on RTL’s Online Presence
The video featuring Minister Ruben Brekelmans, published on YouTube after the intimidation with Russian drones over Polish territory, immediately received a large number of comments. The counter currently stands at nearly 450 comments, most of which are highly negative towards Brekelmans, NATO President Rutte, and the EU. Many of these comments come from accounts with unusual names and few followers, yet they receive dozens of ‘thumbs up’ immediately. These comments are likely fabricated using AI [2].
The Challenge of Moderation
RTL serves a smaller audience of approximately 175,000 subscribers on YouTube, and the video with Brekelmans was viewed over 50,000 times. Dennis van Luling acknowledges that they do not yet have a clear policy for moderating trolls in the comments on YouTube. While they have tools to filter hate comments and insults, combating disinformation requires a different approach. A quick solution is not available, as AI trolls are often indistinguishable from other commenters [2].
Collaboration with Moderation Tools
RTL is in discussions with the party that assists them with social media restrictions to see if they can help address this issue. However, Van Luling has his doubts about whether a third party can filter out malicious bots, as this would require access to IP addresses and the ability to trace technical ‘smoke screens.’ He emphasizes that this is a problem affecting the entire journalism industry, not just RTL. Organizations such as NOS, NU, and Telegraaf have experienced similar issues [2].
Ethical Considerations and Public Concern
This situation has raised concerns among the public and professional circles. A Netkwesties reader warned the editorial team: ‘We boycott Russian channels like RT in the EU due to propaganda, but on the other hand, influential journalistic news providers allow themselves to be manipulated in this way. I see from my own children that especially young people still take the time to read comments under YouTube and TikTok videos. This is not what you want as a journalistic organization?’ [2].
Future Steps and Legislation
To combat disinformation, media organizations are looking towards legislation and technological solutions. On 18 September 2025, a major news outlet announced the establishment of an AI ethics committee to oversee the use of AI in journalism. Additionally, the European Union and other governments plan to introduce legislation to ensure responsible and transparent use of AI in media [5].