Belgium's Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, announced that the country will launch an investigation into suspected Russian interference in the upcoming European Parliament elections. This decision comes after Belgian intelligence services uncovered 'pro-Russian interference networks' aiming to influence the election outcomes.
According to De Croo, Moscow's objective is to support the election of more pro-Russian candidates to the European Parliament with the intention of weakening the EU's backing for Ukraine. Recent findings by Czech authorities revealed a 'pro-Russian influence operation in Europe,' which involved espionage and attempts to sway EU members of parliament to promote a 'Russian agenda.'
De Croo emphasized that Belgian intelligence services have confirmed the existence of these interference networks operating across several European countries, including Belgium. While cash payments did not occur in Belgium, the interference activities did, prompting the need for further investigation and potential prosecution.
The Prime Minister stressed the seriousness of the situation, stating that a diminished European support for Ukraine would ultimately benefit Russia on the battlefield. He highlighted the necessity for both national and EU-level actions to combat Russian propaganda and disinformation.
Belgium, currently holding the EU presidency, has a responsibility to safeguard the integrity of free and fair elections. De Croo called for enhanced tools to counter Russian influence and protect democratic processes.
Concerns have arisen regarding the potential impact of far-right and populist parties, some of which are perceived as sympathetic to the Kremlin, on the European Parliament elections. The rise of these parties could potentially weaken the EU's overall support for Ukraine, especially amidst uncertainties surrounding US support for Kyiv.
The EU has been a key supporter of Ukraine, providing military aid and imposing sanctions on Russian officials since the onset of Russia's invasion in February 2022. However, challenges persist, with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban delaying Kyiv's EU membership negotiations and aid agreements.
As the next European Parliament elections approach, scheduled from June 6-9, the EU faces critical decisions to address Russian interference and uphold its commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of geopolitical challenges.
