A recent report has shed light on allegations that Latvian member of the European Parliament, Tatjana Zdanoka, has been involved in assisting Russian spies to obtain Schengen visas. According to the leaked messages, Zdanoka has been accused of acting as a double agent for Russia and maintaining close contact with the FSB security service since 2005.
The Telegraph revealed that Zdanoka, a former member of the Soviet Communist Party, has been in communication with two veteran handlers from the FSB security service. The leaked messages show that Zdanoka had direct communication with Dimitry Gladey, an FSB employee, and had disclosed sensitive information of interest to Russia.
In addition to her involvement with Russian spies, Zdanoka also used her influence as an MEP to help another FSB agent obtain a Schengen visa to enter the EU shortly after Russia’s invasion of Crimea. Following the leaking of the messages, an investigation into Zdanoka has been launched by the EU Parliament, and measures on the matter are expected in the near future.
Zdanoka represents the Russian Union party in Latvia and has previously faced criticism for her strong links with Russia. Her vote against the EU Parliament’s resolution in support of Ukraine further reinforces her connections to Russia.
Despite the allegations against her, Zdanoka continues to serve as a member of the European Parliament, and the outcome of the investigation will determine the impact of her alleged involvement in assisting Russian spies with Schengen visas.
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