Spain investigating pro-Russian blogger Shariy over alleged ties to Russian intelligence
Spanish law enforcement is conducting a large-scale investigation into pro-Russian blogger Anatoliy Shariy and his wife Olga Bondarenko, suspected of receiving money from Russian intelligence services and of financial fraud, media report.
Spanish authorities are carrying out an extensive investigation into well-known pro-Russian blogger Anatoliy Shariy and his wife Olga Bondarenko, according to multiple media reports citing sources familiar with the case.
Suspected ties to Russian intelligence
Investigators are examining suspicions that the couple received funds from Russian intelligence services. If confirmed, such a link would point to deliberate financial backing possibly connected to the blogger's activity in the information space.
Financial crime allegations
Alongside the possible connection to Russian intelligence, investigators are also looking into suspected financial manipulation and money laundering allegedly involving the couple. The exact scope of the probe and details of any financial schemes have not been made public.
Shariy is known for his pro-Russian stance and large online following, where he regularly shares content aligned with Russian narratives. The investigation into him and his wife reflects a broader trend of European law enforcement agencies paying closer attention to individuals suspected of being linked to the financing of Russian influence operations.
It remains unclear what stage the investigation has reached or when further procedural steps might follow. Spanish authorities have not officially disclosed additional details, and reporting on the case so far relies largely on information obtained by media outlets.
