cross-posted from: https://scribe.disroot.org/post/8556123
Oleg Bessedin, a prominent figure in Estonia’s Russian-speaking community, had run a Facebook group and YouTube channel, both now suspended, which allegedly disseminated pro-Russian propaganda in Estonia.
State Prosecutor Taavi Pern said Bessedin has “consistently” cooperated with Russian state institutions and their representatives, in order to take part in influence activities as described in the indictment.
“Russia is conducting active informational influence operations, during which large amounts of propaganda and disinformation are spread. The aim is to divide the populations of other countries and to sway them to support Russia’s political choices. It is precisely in such influence activities that, in the prosecutor’s assessment, Oleg Bessedin has participated. After examining the evidence collected in the criminal case, the court will be able to pass judgment on Oleg Bessedin’s actions,” Pern said.
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According to the charge sheet, Bessedin had been actively participating in pro-Kremlin influence activities since at least May 2022, and had remained in contact with various Russian institutions, officials, and individuals involved in such influence operations.
In taking part in these activities, Bessedin is alleged to have committed non-violent actions directed against the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Estonia.
The prosecutor has also charged him with broadcasting Russian-sanctioned television programs and content in Estonia via television and social media channels under his control; he is also charged with making sanctioned content available to other channels.
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