EU sanctions Swiss colonel for ‘Russian Propaganda’ despite reliance on Ukrainian and Western sources
The European Union has imposed sanctions on retired Swiss army colonel and strategic analyst Jacques Baud, accusing him of spreading pro-Russian propaganda and “conspiracy theories” about the war in Ukraine.
The measures include an EU-wide travel ban and an asset freeze, and prohibit EU citizens and companies from providing him with funds or economic resources.
In its decision, the EU said Baud regularly appears on “pro-Russian media” and claimed he promoted narratives that undermine Ukraine’s security, including the assertion that Kiev provoked Russia’s invasion to advance its NATO ambitions. The sanctions were adopted by EU member states following a proposal from the European External Action Service.
Baud has rejected the accusations, saying he does not use Russian sources in his work and relies exclusively on Ukrainian and Western material. He said he has also declined invitations from Russian media. Baud argues his analysis focuses on how media framing shapes public understanding of the conflict, rather than defending any side.
Switzerland confirmed awareness of the EU decision but said it has not adopted the sanctions, as it did not join the EU’s latest measures targeting alleged Russian “hybrid threats.”
Norwegian geopolitics professor Glenn Diesen said Baud’s arguments drew on statements from Ukrainian officials themselves and criticised the EU for responding with sanctions rather than rebuttal.
