A court in Prague has upheld the Czech government’s decision to expel Belarusian journalist Natalia Sudliankova, who has been accused of cooperating with Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU.
The Prague Municipal Court rejected Sudliankova’s legal challenge against the government’s decision to place her on the Czech sanctions list in April 2025. The court’s ruling also took classified information into consideration.
According to the court, Sudliankova allegedly received instructions and payments from a GRU officer as well as an employee of USM Holding, a company established by sanctioned Russian businessman Alisher Usmanov.
She was accused of secretly cooperating with several Russian organizations, including the GRU, the Foundation for the Protection and Support of the Rights of Compatriots Abroad and the Immortal Regiment of Russia.
Sudliankova had previously received asylum in Czechia. However, under the government’s decision, she has been ordered to leave the country within 30 days.
Her alleged contact person, Alexei Shavrov, was also placed on the Czech sanctions list and ordered to leave the country.
The Czech Security Information Service reportedly uncovered the activities that led to the government’s action against the journalist.
The case highlights Czech authorities’ growing concerns about alleged Russian intelligence activities and influence operations within the country.
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