France Investigates Possible Russian Link to Anti-Semitic Graffiti Campaign in Paris

Moldovan nationals in police custody claim to be paid by an individual in Russia to conduct anti-Semitic graffiti campaign, leading to increasing scrutiny over potential a destabilization attempt by Moscow.

French authorities are investigating possible Russian involvement in an anti-Semitic graffiti campaign that has seen Stars of David daubed on buildings throughout Paris. Two Moldovan nationals claimed to have been paid by an individual in Russia to carry out the act.
Around 250 Stars of David, the symbol of the Jewish religion and the State of Israel, were smeared on walls and buildings in Paris and its surrounding areas. The motives behind the graffiti were initially unclear, but it is now believed to be part of a potential destabilization effort by Moscow.
Incidents of anti-Semitism have escalated in France since the Hamas attack on Israel early October, with more reported cases of anti-Semitism in the country since the attack than in the entirety of the year to date beforehand. Nearly 900 such incidents have been recorded in the past month.
French intelligence and police agencies are now focusing on an individual, a pro-Russian businessman from Moldova identified as 'Anatoli P.’, who allegedly commissioned and paid for the graffiti acts. The operation appears to be connected to a Russian propaganda network known as Doppelgänger.
The antisemitic graffiti campaign has had significant impact, fueling fears of intercommunal unrest in France, which has the largest Jewish and Muslim populations in Europe. The situation has led to calls for unity and anti-racism marches across the country.