Latvia's state security service has initiated criminal proceedings against a European Parliament lawmaker and a Latvian citizen on suspicion of collaborating with Russian intelligence and security services. The investigation focuses on Tatjana Ždanoka, a 73-year-old individual, following reports that she has been linked to the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) since 2004.
The security service, known as VDD, reportedly began looking into Ždanoka's activities in response to allegations published by various news outlets in January. Despite the accusations, Ždanoka has denied any involvement with Russian intelligence.
In late January, the European Parliament announced that it had launched its own investigation into the reports implicating Ždanoka as a Russian agent. The allegations have raised concerns within the EU legislative body, prompting a thorough examination of the situation.
Collaborative efforts between investigative journalism sites from Russia, Latvia, Estonia, and Sweden revealed leaked emails purportedly showing Ždanoka's interactions with her alleged handler. The publications suggested that she has been promoting pro-Kremlin policies and spreading propaganda related to Russian-speaking populations in Baltic countries.
Ždanoka's role as the president of the EU Russian-Speakers' Alliance, a position she has held since 2007, has come under scrutiny in light of these allegations. Her stance on Russia's actions, including the invasion of Ukraine, has also drawn attention, particularly given the sizable ethnic Russian minority populations in Latvia and Estonia.
Both Latvia and Estonia have faced accusations from Moscow regarding their treatment of Russian-speaking communities. The situation underscores the complex dynamics between these ex-Soviet republics and Russia, with Ždanoka's case highlighting the challenges posed by potential foreign influence within European institutions.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications of Ždanoka's alleged ties to Russian intelligence continue to reverberate across the European political landscape, raising questions about security protocols and the safeguarding of national interests.
