**Russian Couple Accused of Using Fake Investment Plan to Further Kremlin Interests**
A shocking investigation by the iFact collective has uncovered a plot allegedly orchestrated by a Russian couple to use a fake investment plan to acquire land in the western Georgian village of Shukhuti. The report, based on leaked correspondence obtained through the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), reveals how Maria and Yulia Arkhipova used their scheme to maintain regular contact with Pravfond, a Kremlin-backed foundation accused of advancing Russian geopolitical interests.
According to the investigation, the Arkhipovas presented themselves as investors planning to revive a defunct fruit-canning plant in Shukhuti. However, instead of building the facility, they shut out the original landowners and began promoting the site as a future base for a cosmodrome project. But what’s more alarming is that they were engaged in extensive email exchanges with Pravfond, pitching ideas that aligned closely with Russian state interests.
**Russian Aggression and Influence**
The report highlights how Maria Arkhipova sent at least 12 reports from Georgia since arriving in the country in late 2021, suggesting negotiations for the opening of Russian military bases in exchange for recognizing Russia’s occupied territories. She also advocated for granting Russian status as a second official language and opening Russian-language schools, while alleging violations of ethnic Russians’ rights in Georgia.
In one disturbing correspondence cited by investigators, Arkhipova wrote: “Otherwise, we will have to return Georgia in the same way as we are now returning Ukraine.” This statement raises serious concerns about the couple’s intentions and their possible involvement in promoting Russian aggression in the region.
**A Pattern of Influence and Corruption**
The OCCRP investigation reveals a pattern of influence and corruption by Maria Arkhipova and her wife, who received at least 72,000 euros in grants from Pravfond between 2014 and 2015 to cover operational expenses in Ukraine. The couple’s involvement with Pravfond dates back to 2018, when they were engaged in similar influence efforts in Georgia under the guise of legal consulting and investment initiatives.
The Arkhipovas also provided legal services to Lali Moroshkina, a pro-Russian figure and propagandist for Georgian Dream. Moroshkina confirmed that she had interacted with two women from Guria whom she suspected of being spies, and alerted Georgia’s State Security Service.
**A Threat to Regional Stability**
The iFact investigation highlights the threat posed by individuals like Maria and Yulia Arkhipova to regional stability. Their actions demonstrate a clear attempt to further Russian interests in Georgia, using fake investment plans and other tactics to influence local politics and advance Kremlin agendas.
As the world grapples with the consequences of Russia’s aggression, it is essential that we remain vigilant and take concrete steps to prevent similar influence operations from undermining democratic processes.
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