**Argentina Uncovers Russian Spy Network Promoting Disinformation Campaigns**
In a major revelation, Argentina has exposed a Russian intelligence operation aimed at spreading pro-Kremlin disinformation and influencing public opinion in the country. The discovery was made by Argentine authorities, who claim to have uncovered a network of Russian nationals operating on behalf of Moscow.
According to presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni, the La Compania network, allegedly linked to Russia’s Project Lakhta, was led by Russian nationals Lev Konstantinovich Andriashvili and his wife Irina Yakovenko. The couple, residents of Argentina, were accused of receiving financial support to recruit local collaborators and run influence operations aimed at advancing Moscow’s geopolitical interests.
The La Compania network is said to have produced social media content, influenced NGOs and civil society groups, organized focus groups with Argentine citizens, and gathered political intelligence. This revelation has raised concerns about the potential for foreign interference in Argentina’s internal affairs.
**Russian Oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Connection**
The La Compania network is reportedly linked to Russia’s Project Lakhta, which was previously overseen by late Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin, who led the Russian Wagner mercenary group, was killed in a plane crash under suspicious circumstances in August 2023.
Prigozhin’s involvement with the La Compania network highlights the complex web of connections between Russian intelligence agencies and their operatives worldwide. His death has left many questions unanswered, particularly regarding his role in election interference in the United States and Europe.
**Argentina Responds to the Threat**
In response to this discovery, Argentina announced the creation of a new Federal Investigations Department (DFI) within its Federal Police. The agency will focus on countering organized crime, terrorism, and foreign espionage, with investigators trained in advanced techniques and bolstered by experts in law, psychology, and computer science.
Presidential spokesperson Adorni emphasized that Argentina will not be subjected to the influence of any foreign power. This stance reflects the country’s determination to protect its sovereignty in the face of increasing security concerns.
**Russian Migration and Espionage Concerns**
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, there has been a significant uptick in Russian migration to Argentina. Officials have raised fears that some of these migrants could be linked to covert intelligence operations. The 2009 bilateral agreement between Argentina and Russia allowing visa-free travel remains in effect despite growing security concerns.
The revelation of the La Compania network serves as a reminder of the need for countries to remain vigilant against foreign espionage and disinformation campaigns. As Argentina continues to strengthen its counter-intelligence capabilities, it is clear that protecting national sovereignty will require sustained efforts and cooperation with international partners.
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