In a groundbreaking revelation, sources have disclosed that the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) played a crucial role in assisting Czech counter-intelligence in exposing a prominent pro-Russian network of influence on Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in Prague, according to Ukrinform.

This pro-Russian network, reportedly led by Viktor Medvedchuk, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was unveiled by Czech counter-intelligence in the run-up to the June elections for the European Parliament. The network's modus operandi involved paying politicians to endorse Russia and Putin in the European media. Additionally, it operated a website named "Voice of Europe" which disseminated anti-Ukrainian and anti-European materials.

Sources claim that the primary objective of this network was to ensure the election of as many pro-Russian politicians as possible to the European Parliament. The exposure of this clandestine operation has dealt a severe blow to several European politicians who had shown support for Putin. In response, numerous MEPs are calling for an extensive investigation into Russian influence and advocating for appropriate punishment for their "colleagues" who received Russian funds.

Previous reports had indicated that the European Parliament had initiated such an investigation into a Russian network of influence, likely to be linked to Viktor Medvedchuk. The Czech counter-intelligence (BIS) disclosed on March 27 that two Ukrainian business executives, having significant influence in the Ukrainian information field and close ties to Russia, were the key figures in this network. The network, headquartered in the heart of Prague, operated a pro-Russian news website that disseminated articles with an anti-European and anti-Ukrainian slant.

The main goal of this influence group, as stated by Czech authorities, was to undermine the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine within the European Union. A comprehensive 300-page report has been released, meticulously outlining the activities of this network, which was headed by Viktor Medvedchuk, who has been charged with treason, and Artem Marchevsky, the former general producer of the 112 Ukraine news channel.

The collaborative efforts between the SBU and Czech counter-intelligence have shed light on the extent of Russian influence on European politics. As demands for a thorough investigation and accountability gain momentum, the repercussions of this exposure are expected to reverberate throughout the European political landscape.