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Argentina’s National Intelligence Service (SIDE) has exposed a Russian spy group that, in cooperation with local citizens, was creating a network of influence in Moscow’s interests.
According to La Derecha Diario, the investigation concerns the activities of an organisation called La Compañía, associated with the deceased leader of the Wagner PMC Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Lakhta project, known for its global disinformation campaigns.
According to Argentine Presidential Spokesperson Manuel Adorni, the group acted in the interests of the Kremlin’s geopolitical goals, and conducted disinformation and public opinion campaigns in Argentina.
The main goal was to create and distribute content on social media, as well as to influence local NGOs, foundations and non-governmental organisations.
According to the intelligence services, a key role in the scheme was played by Russian citizen Lev Andryashvili, who lives in Argentina. He was responsible for financing the network and establishing contacts with local activists. His accomplice was his wife Irina Yakovenko, also a Russian citizen and resident of Argentina.
The investigation is ongoing. The investigation does not rule out that other individuals may be involved in the network’s activities.
