Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called on European governments to step up efforts to counter Russian influence and strengthen counterintelligence cooperation following an investigation by German RTL journalist Angelika Jerai, which uncovered the recruitment of agents in Germany to carry out surveillance and sabotage.
“Amazed by the brave German investigative reporter at RTL, Angelique Geray, who went undercover to expose Russia's covert recruitment network in Germany,” Sybiha wrote on X.
According to him, the investigation found that agents were recruited through Telegram and paid to carry out surveillance and sabotage tasks. The undercover journalist was also threatened.
Sybiha said the RTL investigation was not an isolated case but reflected a broader pattern of Russian sabotage operations across Europe.
“Putin invests heavily in destabilising Germany and other European nations, especially ahead of elections,” the Foreign Minister wrote.
He also said Russia’s objective is to interfere in the internal affairs of European countries, manipulate public opinion and exploit the most sensitive and divisive issues.
Sybiha called on European governments to take the threat seriously, expose Russian influence and take urgent measures, including addressing Russia’s diplomatic and cultural presence, imposing sanctions on those facilitating such activities, banning Russian propaganda and strengthening counterintelligence cooperation.
“As one of the most experienced nations in countering Russian influence, Ukraine is ready to share its valuable experience upon our partners’ request,” Sybiha stressed.
