EU Commission Vice President Věra Jourová has issued a stark warning regarding the risk of Russian interference in the upcoming German Bundestag elections set for next year.
Speaking to the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung, Jourová expressed concerns over potential meddling efforts.
“I fear that Voice of Europe (a platform involved in an influence campaign during the European Parliament elections, which disseminated Russian propaganda in the EU) is a blueprint for further operations – including ahead of next year’s general elections. This fake media outlet is likely just the tip of the iceberg,” Jourová stated.
Jourová emphasised that Europe is currently facing a “new era of hostile influence.” She highlighted that this method could be replicated, posing significant threats to the integrity of European democratic processes.
Jourová pointed out that Germany, France, and Poland are under extraordinary pressure from Russian disinformation efforts. According to her, Russian President Vladimir Putin is particularly targeting these Central European countries, investing heavily in attempts to shift public opinion. This strategic focus is driven by Putin’s belief that altering public sentiment in these countries could yield substantial benefits for his agenda.
The Vice President called for stronger resistance within the EU against these threats. “The danger is becoming even greater,” she urged, highlighting the necessity for the EU to bolster its defences against such malign activities.
In March, Czech intelligence services reported that the Voice of Europe website was used to disseminate anti-Ukrainian propaganda and disinformation under the direction of Viktor Medvedchuk, who is subject to sanctions by the Czech Republic. Subsequently, in May, the media company was added to the EU sanctions list.
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