The first person listed is Viktor Volodymyrovych Medvedchuk, who runs a Russian influence operation from the Russian Federation on the territory of the Czech Republic. The aim of this operation is to undermine the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. As this activity is designated by relevant provisions of the EU law, the Government has decided to add this person to the national sanctions list and submit a proposal to the EU sanctions list.

In carrying out his activities, Viktor Volodymyrovych Medvedchuk acted through the company Voice of Europe s.r.o. and Mr. Artem Pavlovich Marchevskyi. These two subjects have been listed as well. This decision is in the security interest of the of the Czech Republic, as well as contributing to the protection of the democratic processes in relation to the forthcoming elections to the European Parliament.

As there was a risk of frustration of purpose, the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs decided to add these subjects to the national sanctions list before submitting these listings on the EU sanctions list.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs closely cooperated with the Security Information Service of the Czech Republic and the Financial Analytical Office on this case. In general, the Financial Analytical Office is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of restrictive measures.