Russia is recruiting migrants from non-EU countries via Telegram to commit crimes, spread fear and undermine trust in European governments. This is stated in the annual report of the Czech intelligence service BIS, informsPolitician.
According to intelligence, the Kremlin actively uses Telegram to recruit potential agents, connecting them through intermediaries. Recruits are tasked with collecting data — in particular, capturing on video military bases and logistics centers that provide support to Ukraine.
Another goal of the actions of the Russian special services is psychological pressure, shaking the unity of Western countries and reducing support for Ukraine in the war with Russia.
“This includes weakening the cohesion of Western societies, spreading fear and uncertainty, undermining the public’s confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens, as well as increasing pressure to reduce support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression“, the report said.
BIS points out that many recruited persons do not even realize that they are acting in the interests of Russia, since they interact not with direct representatives of the Kremlin, but with intermediaries. In addition, the report indicates that the Czech Republic has been repeatedly attacked by Russian special services in recent years. The use of the Russian Orthodox Church as an instrument of Moscow’s influence in the country is also noted.
