Austrian intelligence busts Russian spy network, arrests made
Austrian security services have uncovered a spy group working for Russia, aimed at spreading disinformation and manipulating public opinion.
The Austrian Directorate for State Protection and Intelligence (DNS) announced a success in its fight against the Russian espionage network. According to the Polish Press Agency, a Bulgarian citizen was detained and admitted to charges of spying for Russia and conducting a disinformation campaign in Austria.
Investigations revealed that the group began operations a few weeks after the start of Russia's aggression in Ukraine in February 2022. Their goal was to manipulate public opinion in Austria and other German-speaking countries in favor of Russia. The activities included both online presence and public space engagements, with content suggesting links between the Ukrainian army and Nazi ideology being disseminated.
During a search of the suspect’s house in December last year, evidence was found of her pivotal role in the operation. Authorities discovered a detailed action plan for the group on her devices, based on chat messages exchanged through various communication platforms. The Bulgarian played a critical role in the network, serving as the contact person for Russian intelligence.
Reaction of the Austrian authorities
The Secretary of State in the Austrian Ministry of the Interior, Joerg Leichtfried, emphasized the threat that disinformation poses to social cohesion and democracy, as spreading false narratives undermines trust in institutions. He also added that Austrians should form their own opinions independently.
The traces of the group's activities lead to Jan Marsalek, a former Wirecard manager, who led Bulgarian agents after fleeing to Russia. Several members of this network were captured in the United Kingdom in 2023 and sentenced for espionage. The activities in Austria were also part of that trial.
