(MENAFN) Russia is reportedly escalating its disinformation and propaganda campaigns aimed at Western nations, with a particular focus on the Baltic region, according to a Lithuanian broadcaster on Tuesday.

The report indicates that Russian intelligence agencies have been attempting to recruit Latvian citizens through Telegram channels or during visits to Russia to disseminate pro-Kremlin narratives.

Those approached are often from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or are young individuals seeking financial gain.

The broadcaster highlighted the case of Oleg Besedin, a videographer and blogger who was detained in Estonia in early November. Besedin had allegedly collaborated with Moscow-affiliated media for years, producing documentaries and reports that echoed Kremlin messaging.

"Besedin is suspected of participating in information influence campaigns by cooperating with people who live and work in Russia. That is, it is not just a question of him expressing his opinion about Estonia or other Baltic states – he does it in cooperation with persons in Russia.

According to our suspicions, these people specialize in information campaigns," stated Estonian State Prosecutor Taavi Pern.

Erki Korts, director of the Estonian Institute of Internal Security, added that Besedin probably received precise instructions regarding his actions, the narratives to publish, topics to focus on, and political positions to endorse.

Earlier in the year, Latvian national Marat Kasem, former editor-in-chief of Sputnik Lithuania, shared details about a virtual conference organized by the pro-Kremlin Institute for CIS Countries, the broadcaster report noted.

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