Possible involvement of Bystron in expanding Russian propaganda is likely.
Two German politicians from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party allegedly had connections with a Russian propaganda network called "Voice of Europe". According to recent reports, these politicians, Petr Bystron and Maximilian Krah, received money from the organization for pro-Russian statements. However, both politicians have denied receiving any funds from Russia.
Investigators in the Czech Republic believe that AfD member Petr Bystron's involvement with the pro-Russian network was more extensive than initially thought. Not only did he receive money, but he also actively worked with the network to influence others, according to the weekly magazine "Zeit". The information came from multiple sources.
The ongoing investigation centers around the Russian propaganda network around the "Voice of Europe" website, which is based in Prague. It's claimed that the group funneled money to European politicians for making pro-Russian statements through this portal. Already, accusations have been made against Bystron and Krah, the lead candidate for the AfD in the European elections.
The "Zeit" claims that Bystron was in regular contact with those running the "Voice of Europe" network and even discussed content to be published on the site. In addition, Bystron organized conferences throughout Europe, which the portal later reported on. For the creation of the network, Bystron is believed to have recommended various European politicians. The budget for this project was reportedly up to two million euros, as per the report. The conversations were allegedly tapped in the spring of 2023.
The intention of the Russian operation was said to be targeting politicians in Germany, France, Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and the Netherlands. The "Zeit" collaborated with journalists and media houses in these countries, including "Denik N" in the Czech Republic, "Gazeta Wyborcza" in Poland, "Le Soir" and "De Morgen" in Belgium, "Le Monde" in France, and the ARD program "Kontraste", to conduct the research.
Read also:
Governments and parties across Europe have expressed concern over the alleged involvement of AfD members, such as Petr Bystron, in Russian propaganda networks during the European elections. The Czech investigation into the "Voice of Europe" network indicates that Bystron not only received funds but also actively collaborated with the group to influence others.
Following the revelations about Bystron and Maximilian Krah's alleged ties with the Russian propaganda network, the AfD has faced criticism and scrutiny during the European election campaign.
