Russian Disinformation Campaign Uncovered in Austria Linked to Bulgarian Suspect

Authorities in Austria have revealed the existence of a significant Russian disinformation campaign, following espionage allegations against a Bulgarian national. The Directorate for State Protection and Intelligence (DSN) announced that the suspect is believed to have engaged in espionage activities on behalf of Russia and played a critical role in executing a disinformation operation orchestrated from Russia.

The individual is currently not in custody, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Interior Secretary Jörg Leichtfried. Investigations have indicated connections between the Bulgarian suspect and a group operating in the UK, allegedly under the direction of Jan Marsalek, the former Wirecard executive. Recently, three individuals from Bulgaria were convicted in a high-profile espionage case in London.

The covert operation aimed to manipulate public and political perceptions in Austria, fostering negative sentiments towards Ukraine while favoring Russian interests. Secretary Leichtfried emphasized that the spread of false narratives and misinformation undermines trust in institutions and poses a threat to social cohesion. He warned that disinformation could sway elections, incite political instability, and jeopardize democratic societies.

In response to these revelations, Interior Minister Gerhard Karner expressed his satisfaction, commending the efforts of his secretary in combating disinformation.

The DSN's findings stem from the analysis of data collected during a search of the suspect's residence in December. Investigators discovered that a cell working for the Russian intelligence services had begun operations shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. This group reportedly planned a widespread disinformation campaign targeting German-speaking countries, with a particular focus on Austria.

The objective was to sway public opinion against Ukraine and its President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, generating pro-Russian sentiments during the ongoing conflict. The campaign employed both online media strategies and offline tactics, including the use of stickers and graffiti, to create the illusion that pro-Ukrainian activists were behind these actions.

The designs and language used in these activities were carefully crafted to provoke immediate backlash from the public, utilizing extremist symbols and nationalistic rhetoric.

Further analysis of the seized data revealed detailed planning documents from the Russian-directed cell, indicating the suspect's significant involvement as an intelligence contact. It is believed she was tasked with disseminating content in both Germany and Austria. The suspect documented the executed actions, sharing this information with accomplices located in Russia and the UK. She has reportedly admitted to her role in the disinformation efforts, particularly during 2022.