AfD leader Chrupalla supports deputy Bystron amid allegations of Russian payments

On April 7, 2024, AfD party leader Tino Chrupalla reaffirmed support for Petr Bystron, who is accused of receiving funds from Russian propaganda sources linked to 'Voice of Europe.' Bystron, second on the AfD list for the June European Parliament elections, denies the allegations. Czech intelligence reportedly holds proof of payments, but Chrupalla cited lack of definitive evidence and trusts Bystron's denial, opposing calls by fellow AfD candidate Maximilian Krah to bar Bystron from campaign events. The Munich prosecutor's office has launched preliminary investigations into possible deputy bribery. SPD Secretary Kevin Kühnert called the situation troubling but upheld the presumption of innocence. EU Commission Vice-President Vera Jourova warned of extensive Russian disinformation efforts for the elections, expecting more revelations about paid influencers. Parliamentary oversight chairman Konstantin von Notz described AfD as Russia's mouthpiece in Germany, urging security measures and legal scrutiny of illicit party funding. This incident highlights ongoing concerns over Russian hybrid influence targeting European democratic institutions.