Pellegrini wins Slovak presidential election in boost for pro-Russian prime minister
NBCApr 02
Report: Slovakia Grants Refuge to Alleged Pro-Russia Campaigner
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The Facts
According to a report published by Czech news outlet Denik N on Tuesday, Slovakia has granted temporary protection to Ukrainian-Israeli citizen Artem Marchevskyi, accused of running a pro-Russia influence campaign.
While his lawyer confirmed that Marchevskyi — the former general producer of the "112 Ukraine" TV channel — is now in Slovakia, the country's internal affairs ministry said an investigation into the case is underway.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
This is a bold — and correct — move from the Slovak government. Despite attempts from the legacy media and unpopular establishment politicians to promote allegations from Czech officials as the ultimate truth, they are nothing but lies intended to slander people advocating for peace as if they had ties with Russia.
Pro-establishment narrative
It's concerning that Slovakia has offered Voice of Europe's Marchevskyi a haven as he is knee-deep in pro-Russia interference in the EU. Since the Kremlin needs local allies to spread disinformation and propaganda across Europe, the temporary protection may be crucial for their efforts ahead of June's European elections.