The Prosecutor's Office accuses Oleg Bessedin of actively working in favor of Russia. He did this starting from May 2022. He communicated with Russian officials and organizations involved in activities against Estonia.
Bessedin is accused of participating in activities against Estonia. These activities are directed against Estonia's independence and territorial integrity. Additionally, the Prosecutor's Office accuses him of broadcasting Russian-sanctioned television programs. He did this through his television and social media channels.
Prosecutor General Taavi Pern said that Bessedin closely cooperated with Russian institutions. This cooperation was aimed at conducting influence operations. Russia spreads propaganda and disinformation to change the opinions of residents of other countries. Bessedin participated in this activity.
Pern added that after examining the evidence, the court will decide on Bessedin's actions. International sanctions against Russia are in effect. Their goal is to stop Russian propaganda and aggression. The Prosecutor's Office claims that Russia uses disinformation to justify its attacks.
Bessedin is also accused of spreading Russian propaganda. In doing so, he gave the impression that these were the views of Estonia's Russian-speaking population.
A company associated with Bessedin agreed to remedy the consequences of the crime. The Prosecutor's Office terminated proceedings against the company and imposed a fine of 4,000 euros. This money will go to an organization supporting Ukraine.
Bessedin's criminal case will be heard in Harju County Court. The Security Police detained Bessedin in November 2022.