The head of the Czech intelligence service, Michal Koudelka, has said that Russia would do the same in the Czech Republic as it did in Ukraine – kill innocent civilians and spare no one, writes Politico.
Speaking at a conference on homeland security and national defense, Koudelka told lawmakers that Russia is committing brutal murders in Ukraine and deliberately endangering civilians – women and children, innocent, defenseless Ukrainian citizens. He added that everyone can be absolutely sure that the Russians would do exactly the same in the Czech Republic, and there can be no doubt about it.
Koudelka’s warning came as the Czech Republic prepares for parliamentary elections in October. Russia’s influence on the electoral process in Eastern Europe, including in Moldova and Romania, where elections are expected in September, is a concern for Brussels.
The Czech Security Intelligence Service (BIS) regularly warns about Russian influence operations in the country, noting that
there are efforts to promote media narratives favorable to the Kremlin.
There are also attempts to hack government information systems. Koudelka said that Russia is trying to promote social division and undermine public trust in state institutions and the rule of law, and threatens the Czech Republic’s place in the international community. In its 2024 report, the intelligence service indicated that Russia hires immigrants from third countries to commit crimes, sow fear and undermine trust in the government.
Research outlet Voxpot has revealed that Czech disinformation websites are publishing news translated from sanctioned Russian media more than ever before.
Koudelka said that Moscow does not want to end the war in Ukraine, otherwise it would have already concluded a peace agreement. He added that the Ukrainians are also fighting for the freedom of the Czech Republic: “They are giving us time to prepare for possible Russian aggression.” The intelligence chief pointed out that the only thing Russia understands is force, and the Czech Republic must show that it is ready to defend its freedom.
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