Authorities in Cyprus are investigating a video. The video appears to show corruption involving President Nikos Christodoulides. It also shows questionable money donations. Intelligence services think it could be part of a planned "hybrid operation." They believe Russia may be using disinformation tactics. This is happening as Cyprus takes over the European Union Presidency. This could cause geopolitical problems.
The video appeared online last Friday. Fact-checkers have studied it carefully. Fact Check Cyprus said it was very likely not made by artificial intelligence. However, its origin is still unknown. It came from an X account called "EmilyTanalyst." This account shows a Ukrainian flag. It does not have clear ownership details. The account has also shared articles with AI-generated profile pictures. This makes it more suspicious.
The Cyprus Intelligence Service is leading the investigation. Several police departments are also involved. They are trying to find out how the video was made. They also want to identify any crimes related to its creation and sharing. The main goal is to understand this complex disinformation campaign.
A key part of the investigation involves a sting operation. It seems to include former minister Giorgos Lakkotrypis. It might also involve the President's chief of staff. A company called "Stratix Wealth" was involved. It pretended to represent a Dutch investment fund. Lakkotrypis was reportedly offered a €150 million energy investment. The filmed parts involving politicians were likely edited. This was to suggest illegal cash donations.
This alleged disinformation plot is very complex. It may be linked to the Russian "Doppelganger" campaign. This campaign has been active since 2021. It often uses damaging information to destabilize targets. This leak is aimed at damaging reputations. Cypriot authorities may ask Europol for help. This is because of the digital evidence and international nature of the suspected operation.