Russia is recruiting migrants from non-EU countries to commit crimes, instill fear and undermine trust in European governments. This was announced by the Czech intelligence service (BIS) in its annual report for 2024, quoted by "Politico", reports News.bg.
According to the BIS, Russian services use the Telegram platform to recruit potential agents. The tasks include filming videos from military bases, logistical centers for aid to Ukraine and committing arson. The main goal of these actions is not only to cause damage or gather information, but also to exert psychological pressure.
“This includes shaking public cohesion, spreading fear and uncertainty, undermining trust in state institutions and increasing pressure to end support for Ukraine“, the report states.
BIS notes that in many cases, the agents are unaware that they are working for Russia, as they are recruited through intermediaries.
The Czech Republic already has a history of Russian subversive activities on its territory. In 2021, the country expelled 18 Russian diplomats following an investigation into a warehouse explosion in Vrbetice in 2014 that killed two people. The BIS presented evidence that Russia was behind the attack.
In June 2025, the Czech Republic sentenced a Colombian man responsible for a failed arson attack at a bus station to eight years in prison. According to Prime Minister Petr Fiala, the attack was probably organized by Russia. The BIS said it had prevented other similar attacks.
The intelligence also warns that Russia is spreading its influence through the Russian Orthodox Church in the Czech Republic. An institution that the BIS describes as completely loyal to the Kremlin.