Information
Anna Novikova, a 40-year-old French-Russian humanitarian activist and founder of SOS Donbass, is being held in France on suspicion of espionage for Russia. French prosecutors accuse her of seeking information from executives at French companies related to national economic interests, in a context where European governments are increasingly alert to Russian “hybrid warfare.” Novikova, who has not yet appointed legal representation, denies any wrongdoing through her husband, insisting she is focused solely on delivering aid to civilians in Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine.
While Reuters found no evidence directly connecting Novikova’s social media activity or contacts to criminal acts, their investigation shows she has deep ties to Kremlin-linked networks. She has met United Russia officials in Donbas, engaged with the Kremlin-backed People’s Front in Moscow, worn the uniform of a Cossack group loyal to Putin, and participated in pro-Russian activism across Europe. Novikova has also been connected to French political figures and individuals working within major defense and energy companies, further heightening suspicion among French authorities as they probe Russia’s influence efforts.
Source: Reuters
So What
It is highly likely that Novikova was providing information to Russia, though the intelligence she could access was probably limited and of low strategic value. Her case reflects a broader trend in Europe: individuals with close ties to Russia are increasingly subject to intense scrutiny, whether justified or not, as governments respond to growing concerns about covert influence and hybrid warfare.
Follow us to join the intelligence community!