Fact Check: Czech Military Intelligence Confirms Unprecedented Chinese Operation on European Soil
What We Know
The claim that "Czech military intelligence confirms unprecedented Chinese operation on European soil" is substantiated by multiple sources detailing recent incidents involving Chinese intelligence activities in the Czech Republic. On May 28, 2025, the Government of the Czech Republic officially attributed a malicious cyber campaign targeting its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the People's Republic of China, specifically linking it to the cyberespionage group APT31, which is associated with China's Ministry of State Security (source-1). This cyber operation, which began in 2022, was described as a significant threat to Czech critical infrastructure.
Additionally, in March 2024, Czech military intelligence confirmed that Chinese diplomatic staff in Prague were involved in an intelligence operation aimed at Taiwanese Vice-President Hsiao Bi-khim during her visit to the Czech Republic. This operation included plans for physical confrontation and was characterized as unprecedented interference on European soil (source-4). The intelligence operation was reportedly conducted by individuals holding diplomatic positions, which raises serious concerns about the violation of diplomatic norms.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible sources, including official statements from the Czech government and reports from established news organizations. The official statement from the Czech government outlines the findings of an extensive investigation involving multiple intelligence agencies, which lends credibility to the assertion that China was responsible for the cyber operation (source-1). Furthermore, the involvement of Czech military intelligence in confirming the intelligence operation against the Taiwanese vice-president adds weight to the claim of unprecedented Chinese actions on European soil (source-4).
The reliability of the sources is high, as they include government statements and reports from reputable media outlets like Reuters and Czech Radio. However, it's essential to consider the potential for bias, particularly in the context of international relations where narratives can be influenced by political agendas. The Czech Republic's strained relations with China over issues related to Taiwan and cybersecurity may color the interpretation of these events.
Conclusion
The claim that Czech military intelligence has confirmed an unprecedented Chinese operation on European soil is True. The evidence from credible sources, including government statements and intelligence reports, substantiates the assertion that China has engaged in significant espionage activities within the Czech Republic, including cyber operations and direct interference in diplomatic matters. These actions represent a notable escalation in China's intelligence operations in Europe.
Sources
- Statement by the Government of the Czech Republic
- Czech Republic says China behind cyberattack on ministry, embassy
- China aimed to sabotage Taiwanese vice president's Czechia visit ...
- Chinese spies blamed for attempted hack on Czech government network
- EU supporting Czech Republic after Chinese cyberattack
