A report from a German outlet indicated by Der Spiegel suggests that the Belgian State Security Service is examining whether Kirill Logvinov, Russia’s permanent representative to the European Union, maintains ties with Russian foreign intelligence. The publication notes that an inquiry is underway into Logvinov, who holds the highest-ranking diplomatic post for Russia within the EU, with Belgian authorities reportedly suspecting him of pursuing activities that run counter to European interests.
Diplomatic circles within the European Union reflected during 2022 on the Logvinov case, describing it as a matter of internal contention. Belgian intelligence reportedly urged placing Logvinov on a list of persons to be banished from the country, yet the European External Action Service appeared to block such a move, possibly out of concern for potential consequences for its representatives in Moscow.
Der Spiegel claims that the European External Action Service has not provided a definite explanation for the decision not to deport Logvinov amid espionage suspicions. A spokesperson for Belgium’s state security agency affirmed that authorities continue to assess the threat level and adapt measures accordingly as the situation evolves.
Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, weighed in on the matter, addressing Logvinov’s possible espionage links. She invited Der Spiegel to publish a list of German intelligence operatives around the world and warned that should Western media mount a campaign against Russian diplomats, analogous actions could be taken against personnel from Western diplomatic services as well.
In a separate development, a Belarusian suspect alleged to be involved in spying for Russia faced detention in Poland, marking another instance of intelligence activity drawing regional scrutiny.