Switzerland, known for its neutrality and role as a global diplomatic hub, is gradually becoming an ideal operational base for Russian intelligence activities. Its calm diplomatic climate, numerous international organizations, and lack of strict counter-espionage responses make the country an attractive platform for gathering information and conducting covert operations.
According to the Swiss Federal Intelligence Service (FIS), Russia poses the greatest espionage threat to the country. Approximately one-third of the 220 employees at Russian diplomatic missions in Bern and Geneva are suspected of being linked to Russian intelligence services.
An investigative report by RTS (Swiss television) revealed that Russian diplomats installed suspicious satellite antennas on their buildings in Geneva without obtaining permission from cantonal authorities. Source: Swissinfo
These antennas are believed to be used for espionage activities. They may intercept mobile and radio signals, leveraging the strategic location of Russian diplomatic buildings near the headquarters of international organizations.
Geneva is home to numerous global institutions, including the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the World Trade Organization. This creates ideal conditions for gathering confidential information critical to global politics and economics.
Cantonal authorities in Geneva stated that the Russian mission should have obtained special permission to install large satellite antennas, but since 2006, Russia has submitted only one such request.
These antennas enable Russian agents to access information that could influence decision-making at the level of international organizations.
“These are clearly antennas used for espionage. There is no need for such a device for classic diplomatic messages. These antennas are used to spy on electronic communications, but also satellite communications,” historian Adrian Hänni, an expert on secret services at the University of Graz, told RTS.
Comparing current and archive images, RTS has established that these satellite dishes are mainly new devices.
Russia seems to be expanding its intelligence activity on Swiss territory, according to Hänni: “Russia has become much more offensive in terms of espionage in recent years. Switzerland is a hot spot, a rear base for Russian spies active throughout Europe.”
Switzerland has recorded several Russian espionage operations. Moscow’s activities in the country are not limited to intelligence gathering but also include disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilization.
Recent espionage cases
- Investigation of a Russian agent: The Swiss Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation into a Russian agent suspected of illegally transporting military materials and violating embargo regulations. One of the suspects, acting under diplomatic cover, evaded arrest and left the country.
- The “builders” in Davos: Two Russians, posing as plumbers, were suspected of attempting to infiltrate infrastructure related to the World Economic Forum. Their mission was believed to involve the installation of listening devices.
- Intercepting communications in Geneva: The international community suspected Russian agents of conducting reconnaissance during negotiations between U.S. and Iranian representatives regarding a nuclear agreement. Moscow reportedly used cyber tools to hack participants’ devices.
Russia’s intelligence network in Switzerland relies not only on official diplomats. It includes journalists, entrepreneurs, and even students with access to certain circles who can relay collected information. In Geneva, such agents often attend public events, forums, and conferences to gather intelligence or establish contacts.
Switzerland traditionally takes a cautious stance on countering foreign intelligence operations. Expelling diplomats suspected of espionage is an exception rather than the rule, as the country seeks to avoid diplomatic conflicts and maintain neutrality.
However, this passive approach has faced growing criticism. Experts argue that such leniency effectively encourages espionage activities, as foreign agents perceive minimal risks to their operations.
As a host to key international organizations, Switzerland must protect its territory from foreign interference. Introducing stricter measures for identifying spies, enhancing control over diplomatic activities, and expanding cooperation with international partners could significantly reduce the scope for foreign intelligence operations.
Today, Switzerland remains one of the key rear bases for Russian spies in Europe. Its strategic location, traditional neutrality, and weak control over foreign intelligence activities create all the conditions for further escalation of Russian espionage operations.
