Trial Opens in Paris Over Russian-Linked Campaign to Destabilize France

The trial has begun in Paris against three Bulgarian suspects accused of vandalizing the Holocaust memorial as part of a broader Russian effort to destabilize France. The suspects—Mircho Angelov, Georgi Filipov, and Kiril Milushev—were arrested for their roles in symbolic attacks designed to inflame tensions between Jewish and Muslim communities in France. Investigators and intelligence officials view this vandalism not as an isolated hate crime but as a component of Russia’s escalating hybrid warfare campaign against France, seeking to exploit the country's political and social vulnerabilities ahead of the pivotal 2027 presidential election.

Experts emphasize France’s position as a significant supporter of Ukraine and a nuclear power makes it a strategic target for Russia. Kevin Limonier, professor at the GEODE geopolitical research center, underscored Russia’s perception of France as a key adversary due to its vocal support for Ukraine. Natalia Pouzyreff, a lawmaker from President Macron’s party, highlighted that unlike Eastern European countries, France lacks robust preventive measures against foreign interference, leaving its population vulnerable to manipulative rhetoric.

This trial reflects the wider context of ongoing covert influence and psychological operations by Russia, including vandalism at mosques and provocative acts near iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower. Authorities see these acts as part of an orchestrated campaign to aggravate social divisions and destabilize French society politically and socially as it approaches the next presidential elections.