Russian electoral interference now a “stark reality” warns Andrews

Russian interference in Irish elections is no longer a threat but a stark reality, according to Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Andrews.

French security officials have tipped off the Irish government that Russia’s renowned disinformation campaign, which has interfered in the likes of the 2017 French presidential election and the 2019 British general election, was now looking to interfere in Ireland’s upcoming European elections.

Andrews said “Putin’s propaganda is now evident on our doorsteps.”

“This is the stark reality and voters must be vigilant. Russia is seeking to influence Irish voters to elect MEPs that will spread its propaganda in Brussels, undermine support for Ukraine and damage the European project.”

Andrews stated he has warned about the growing influence of Russia in the European parliament, accusing left-wing MEPs Clare Daly and Mick Wallace of “consistently taken decisions that are straight from the Kremlin’s playbook. ”

“When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the European Parliament adopted a resolution condemning Russia. Just 13 out of the 705 MEPs voted against this.  Clare Daly and Mick Wallace were two of them.”

“Let’s be absolutely clear about this: there is one aim and one aim only, and that is to hand over control of Europe’s decisions and direction to Russia.  Promoting Ireland’s needs and values will be nowhere near the agenda,” he said.

He warned that the potential consequences for Ireland “could not be more serious.”

“Ireland’s prosperity depends on a robust and democratic European Union.  A thriving Irish economy is directly dependent on Ireland maintaining strong, positive and active voices at the decision-making table in Brussels.  Irish people are largely pro-European Union, as we understand that our small country is punching above its weight in Europe and continually getting the best of our membership of the EU.”

“I am urging voters to be vigilant about what they read, see online and what is targeted at them on social media over the next four weeks.”