Brussels – AfD Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Petr Bystron is calling for an immediate investigation into the activities of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in the European Union. The background to this demand is allegations that USAID sought to influence the 2024 European elections through disinformation campaigns in several EU countries. These allegations are based on revelations by Elon Musk and Donald Trump regarding illegal practices within USAID.
“Trump has done fantastic groundwork; now we must also quickly and comprehensively uncover illegal election interference by foreign states in Europe,” said Bystron. He stated that there is a strong suspicion that foreign influence has massively manipulated the composition of the EU Parliament. “The EU must relentlessly combat all forms of hybrid warfare, foreign propaganda, and disinformation.”
Bystron criticized the fact that USAID-funded media had deliberately targeted opposition forces. “Our democracy must be protected from foreign influences,” said the AfD politician. He argued that it is the responsibility of European institutions to investigate these manipulations and ensure the security of future elections.
The U.S. Agency for International Development is currently facing criticism for allegedly using intelligence funds to influence elections and carry out regime changes worldwide. U.S. President Donald Trump has therefore drastically cut USAID’s budget and placed all employees on leave as of February 7.
