The Czech government has only stated that it concerns European politicians. De Jonge writes about this in the letter: “Discussing names that circulate in the reporting in response to the Czech statement is contrary to the task assigned to the intelligence service by the legislature and does not serve national security.”
‘Threat to national security’
However, he emphasizes that collusive influence “undermines our democracy, undermines confidence in our democratic institutions and poses a threat to our national security.”
Last Wednesday, the Czech intelligence services rolled up a network that spread Russian propaganda in Europe, via the Voice of Europe news site. This happened with money from Moscow, said Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala.
According to the Czech news site Denik N, Dutch politicians were also involved in the pro-Russian news site Voice of Europe. Although the intelligence services do not mention names, Denik K reported that in recent years PVV leader Wilders, FVD leader Baudet and FvD European parliamentarian De Graaff have given interviews to Voice of Europe.
Wilders, Baudet and De Graaff have denied taking money from Russia. Geert Wilders said about this to RTL News: “Fortunately, we have never received a cent from anyone, directly or indirectly, from that country, not even via a website.”
‘I don’t think it’s about anything’
Baudet responded: “I am not accused of anything? What exactly is the accusation? That I was interviewed? I don’t think it is about anything.”
The Chamber responded with concern to the reports in the Czech media. Jan Paternotte (D66) wanted to find out ‘as quickly as possible’ who has received money from Russia. CDA MP Derk Boswijk also asked for an investigation. “These allegations are incredibly serious and serious.” Laurens Dassen of Volt wrote: “Totally unacceptable and dangerous. Serious accusations of foreign interference that we must take very seriously. This must be investigated immediately.”
‘Threat to our security’
Jesse Klaver (GroenLinks-PvdA) called the news ‘very worrying’. He saw the messages as ‘a direct threat to our national security’.
De Jonge writes in the letter that the House ‘can trust that the AIVD will act in accordance with its role and task if this is necessary’. “You can assume that the AIVD will do what is necessary.”
Tomorrow evening there will be a debate in the House of Representatives about Russian influence. Last week, a debate between Klaver and Baudet about another case involving Russian interference led to a serious clash, which you can also see in the video below:
Tags: Cabinet mention names politicians received money Russia
