What's happened
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo has announced an investigation into suspected Russian interference in the upcoming European Parliament elections. The investigation follows confirmation by Belgian intelligence of pro-Russian influence networks operating in several European countries, including Belgium.
Why it matters
The investigation into Russian interference in the European Parliament elections is crucial as it aims to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and prevent foreign influence. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the election results and the relationship between the EU and Russia.
What the papers say
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo revealed the investigation into Russian interference, stating that the goal is to weaken European support for Ukraine. The investigation was prompted by the discovery of pro-Russian influence networks by Belgian intelligence services. De Croo emphasized the need to protect citizens' right to a free and safe vote.
How we got here
The investigation was initiated following concerns raised by Belgian intelligence about pro-Russian influence networks operating in Europe. The move comes after similar revelations in the Czech Republic, where Russia allegedly approached European Parliament members to promote pro-Russian sentiment.
Common question
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Alexander De Croo is a Flemish liberal politician, economist and businessman. He currently holds the office of Prime Minister of Belgium and Minister of Finance and Development Cooperation.
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Belgium, officially the Kingdom of Belgium, is a country in Western Europe. It is bordered by the Netherlands to the north, Germany to the east, Luxembourg to the southeast, France to the southwest, and the North Sea to the northwest.
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The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. Its members have a combined area of 4,233,255.3 kmĀ² and an estimated total population of about 447 million.
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.