Immunity of AfD politician Bystron lifted again amid investigations linked to suspected Russian influence operation

The Bundestag's June 27, 2024 decision to lift immunity enabled renewed investigation into AfD politician Petr Bystron for suspected money laundering and bribery. Authorities conducted house searches in multiple locations including Prague, Linked to a suspected Russian influence operation through the Czech website 'Voice of Europe,' Bystron allegedly accepted a five-figure cash payment allegedly connected to Kremlin interests. Czech intelligence agency BIS is investigating an alleged Russian network influencing right-wing EU politicians. Bystron reportedly met with Artem Martschewskyi, leader of 'Voice of Europe' and associated with Kremlin-linked oligarch Viktor Medvedchuk. Investigators seized financial documents from Liechtenstein, the Czech Republic, and are searching for a smartphone possibly used by Bystron. Bystron denies all charges and was unreachable for comment. This case highlights ongoing Russian efforts at political subversion within EU member states.