Switzerland Accused Russia and China for Espionage in the Country

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Switzerland's main intelligence agency, Federal Intelligence Service (FIS) has identified that the country has become a hotspot for Russian espionage following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

In its annual report, the FIS revealed that approximately one-third of the 220 accredited Russian officials in Switzerland were suspected of being spies.

In the wake of Ukraine war, expulsions have weakened Russian spying in other parts of Europe and North America.

Russian agents have continued to operate in Bern and at Moscow's mission to the United Nations in Geneva, revealed the report.

High Presence of Russian Spies in Switzerland:

The FIS report states that due to its role as a host to international organizations, Switzerland has one of the highest numbers of Russian intelligence officers operating under diplomatic cover in Europe.

With Geneva hosting the European headquarters of the United Nations and various UN agencies, hundreds of diplomats gather in the city for important meetings.

Out of the approximately 220 accredited staff in Russian missions in Geneva and Bern, it is estimated that at least one-third are affiliated with Russian intelligence services.

Expanding Surveillance Areas and China's Espionage:

The FIS, which has 450 personnel, revealed that the conflict in Ukraine has compelled them to extend their monitoring to areas that previously received little attention, including Turkey and India.

Russia has utilized companies in these countries for procurement purposes.

While China also has a presence of spies in Switzerland, their numbers are significantly lower than Russia's.

Chinese agents primarily operate under non-diplomatic cover, often posing as scientists, journalists, or business executives.

The FIS expects China's intelligence operations in Europe to strengthen with increased resources.

Impact on Security and Global Order:

FIS Chief Christian Dussey highlighted the negative consequences of espionage operations on Geneva's international importance as well as the country's credibility.

The report emphasized that the growing rivalry between major world powers, intensified by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, has affected the security landscape.

The report also stated that Russia has undermined the rules-based order for peace in Europe.

This has potentially lead to a decline in the effectiveness of international forums such as the UN and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

A stable new world order remains elusive.