The Vienna region’s DSN intelligence agency uncovered a Russian disinformation campaign targeting a Bulgarian national accused of spying and disseminating false information about Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine. The investigation, which initiated in December, revealed that the unknown woman, whom DSN did not name, was linked to a group organized solely by a Bulgarian intelligence agent. This group’s actions are described as manning the exports for German-speaking countries during an investigation focused on contexts in Europe. The campaign included activities in the media landscape, including the creation of fake articles and the use of graffiti and stickers. The effects of these disinformation efforts, as reported by news organizations, have caused significant divisions within society and raised concerns about the institutions relying on this information. The Russian Embassy in Vienna did not immediately respond to a request for comment, while its principal office in Vienna declined to comment as well. In a search of the woman’s residence in an unknown German-speaking region in Austria, DSN investigators reported finding evidence from a group that had been working for Russian secret services since shortly after the invasion of Ukraine. This group targeted a variety of post-infiltration effects in Europe, suggesting a visible shift in public perception after Russia’s military advance against Ukraine. Despite this, the Aj unsuitable conditions, including a regional court decision denying her capture, indicated that country’s investigation may remain inactive or in a different phase. A Vienna district court spokesperson again indicated that while the judge confirmed her suspected guilt, the arrest order was denied because the suspect assured the court that she would not attempt to evade consequences. The situation has also been reported in SAT’s Telegram channel, where previously unknown details about the woman’s involvement with the Russian intelligence network were shared. Overall, the research highlights the growing visibility of disinformation efforts in the international arena and their potential impact on societal trust and cohesion.
