Belgium Uncovers Pro-Russian Interference Network in European Parliament
In a shocking revelation, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo announced on Friday that Belgium’s intelligence services have confirmed the presence of a pro-Russian interference network operating in several European countries. The network, which is actively engaging in illicit activities, is now under investigation in Belgium.
A recent probe conducted by Czech authorities uncovered a scheme where lawmakers in the European Parliament in Brussels were receiving cash from a Moscow-backed influence operation. The cash was used to promote propaganda within the bloc, sparking concerns about the integrity of the upcoming EU elections.
“The cash payments may not have occurred in Belgium, but the interference certainly did,” De Croo stated, highlighting the country’s responsibility as the seat of the EU institutions to protect citizens’ rights to a free and fair vote.
With the EU elections looming, fears are mounting that Kremlin proxies could be manipulating information to influence the democratic process. Calls for a swift investigation have been made by major factions in the European Parliament, including the Socialists and Democrats, Renew Europe, and the Greens.
While the exact number of EU lawmakers implicated in the scheme remains unclear, reports suggest politicians from Germany, France, Poland, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Hungary could be involved. The Czech investigation has already led to sanctions against individuals and the news company Voice of Europe, allegedly used as a channel for the Russian operation.
MEP Maximilian Krah of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) denied any financial benefits from his association with Voice of Europe, emphasizing the lack of specific allegations against him. De Croo has engaged with European Parliament and Commission leaders to address the issue, calling for urgent discussions at the EU level.
Belgian authorities are also grappling with a corruption scandal involving MEPs accused of receiving cash in exchange for political influence. The investigation, plagued by challenges and controversies, has been dubbed ‘Belgium-gate’. Despite the setbacks, De Croo reaffirmed Belgium’s commitment to upholding EU values and ensuring accountability.
As the investigation unfolds, De Croo expressed support for the Czech Republic’s proposal to impose EU-wide sanctions on individuals linked to the propaganda network. He emphasized the need to scrutinize not only those who provide bribes but also those who receive them, underscoring the importance of a thorough and comprehensive probe. — Euronews
