Russian FSB Disinformation Network Posing as 'Ukrainian Nazis' Exposed in Austria

Austrian Authorities Uncover Extensive Russian Disinformation Operation

Austrian authorities announced in March 2025 the exposure of a sophisticated pro-Russian agent network, allegedly linked to the Federal Security Service (FSB) of the Russian Federation. This network was reportedly engaged in a large-scale disinformation campaign primarily targeting German-speaking countries, with a particular focus on Austria. The operation aimed to spread false narratives about Ukraine and generate anti-Ukrainian sentiment by posing as 'Ukrainian Nazis'.

The 'Ukrainian Nazis' Disinformation Tactic

The core of the disinformation campaign involved creating and disseminating propaganda designed to appear as if it originated from pro-Ukrainian activists, yet featuring far-right and neo-Nazi symbols. This included:

• Stickers and graffiti: Publicly placed materials often combined far-right symbols with the colors of the Ukrainian flag, slogans like 'Glory to Ukraine,' and derogatory messages directed against Russians. The intent was to falsely attribute these symbols to Ukrainians and provoke outrage.
• Fake websites: The network established several online platforms that mimicked European branches of Ukraine's Azov Regiment, further attempting to link Nazi symbolism to Ukraine and discredit the nation.

The campaign, which began shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, sought to manipulate public and political opinion against Ukraine and its leadership, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Key Figures and International Connections

The investigation has identified Jan Marsalek, an Austrian citizen and former chief operating officer of the collapsed fintech firm Wirecard, as a central figure coordinating the network. Marsalek, a fugitive since 2020, is suspected of long-term cooperation with Russian intelligence services. Chat logs reviewed by the Austrian magazine Profil in December 2025 reportedly show Marsalek's direct involvement in orchestrating the influence operation.

The Austrian investigation was initiated following the detention of an unnamed Bulgarian woman in December 2024, who was accused of spying for Russia. She reportedly admitted to working for the cell, acting as an intelligence contact and distributing content across Germany and Austria.

The network's activities extended beyond Austria, with connections to a broader Marsalek-linked spy ring. In May 2025, six Bulgarian nationals, including Orlin Rusev, were convicted in the United Kingdom for espionage activities directed by Russia. Rusev, who worked with Marsalek on producing propaganda materials, was sentenced to 10 years and 8 months in prison.

Austrian Response and Broader Espionage Concerns

Austria's Domestic Intelligence Agency (DSN) discovered evidence of the operation during the analysis of electronic devices seized from the detained Bulgarian woman. The Austrian Interior Ministry has stated that the country is aware of Russian espionage activities and is working to counter state-backed threats.

This exposure adds to growing concerns about Russian intelligence operations in Europe, with Vienna frequently cited as a significant hub for Russian espionage. The case is also linked to a larger espionage scandal involving former Austrian intelligence officer Egisto Ott, who was arrested in March 2024 on suspicion of providing sensitive information to Russian intelligence and assisting Marsalek.