A staff member of the Sweden Democrats (SD) parliamentary group has for a long time been spreading pro-Russian narratives and taking part in cultural activities linked to Russia’s interests.
The woman, who moved to Sweden from Russia in the mid-2000s, shared Russian propaganda materials on the war in Ukraine, Western countries and Swedish institutions on social media, SVT reports.
In addition, she had links to the Russian foundation Pravfond, which has been associated with espionage activities.
Sweden’s Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called the information serious and said there is no place for pro-Russian narratives in the country, and that the party should dismiss the staff member. Opposition leader Magdalena Andersson also stressed the threat posed by Russia’s hybrid war to the country’s security.
The Sweden Democrats’ press office said it is checking the information and noted that all employees undergo security vetting.
Party leader Jimmie Åkesson said the leadership was unaware of the staff member’s activities, and that she has currently been suspended from her duties while the circumstances are clarified.