EU Rocked by Russian Influence Scandal Ahead of Elections

Pro-Kremlin website and payments to EU lawmakers uncovered as part of a multinational espionage crackdown.

A Russian influence campaign involving the pro-Kremlin website 'Voice of Europe' and payments to European Parliament members has been exposed.
Belgian and Czech governments discovered the plot, leading to sanctions against Voice of Europe and its financier, Ukrainian oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk.
European Commission Vice President Věra Jourová described the revelations as 'very troubling,' highlighting the Kremlin's use of disinformation as a weapon.
Polish and Czech security services conducted raids, seizing significant amounts of money and investigating espionage activities for Russia.
The scandal raises concerns about corruption and foreign meddling ahead of the European Parliament election scheduled for June 6-9.