Former Duma member: Russia’s Babich will coordinate pro-Russian forces in Ukraine

"If Ukraine agrees to the appointment of Mr. Babich, then you will get a guaranteed spy web if you take a look at him in terms of coordination of the Russian intelligence services in the country, as well as a direct contact person in the organization of possible polls campaigns in the interest of the Russian Federation. Appointment of Mr. Babich can be interpreted as a preparation for possible snap elections, on which Russia makes a bet and therefore [Moscow] is dispatching somebody who will coordinate the activities of pro-Russian forces in Ukraine," said Ilya Ponomarev.

He noted that Babich worked as the curator of the regional offices of the United Russia party in the polls, including Siberia. Moreover, he is mentioned in a number of corruption scandals.

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