Source: European Parliament
Russian malign influence, interference and attempts to manipulate take many forms, including accusations against specific Member States, such as in the case of Poland, which has been the target of Moscow’s campaigns for many years, including with attempts to undermine political leaders, Polish policy and material support to Ukraine, as well as Poland’s role in the EU.
The EU has been at the forefront of developing policies and tools to contribute to the Information Integrity and Countering Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference[1] (FIMI).
Within the mandate of the European External Action Service (EEAS), Russian FIMI campaigns are monitored, analysed and exposed and findings are made public, including on the EUvsDisinfo[2] platform.
The Commission reiterates its position of strong condemnation of Russia’s espionage, hybrid threats and disinformation campaigns.
The Commission will further prepare a European Democracy Shield, which will include initiatives to help to counter foreign information manipulation and interference online.
It should be noted, however, that reviews or similar kinds of investigations of lobbying activities alleged of falling under the scope of FIMI are within the competence of the Member States.
The Commission nor EEAS does not comment on national criminal investigations and the administration of justice in the Member States.