Economic prosecutor probes V+O over alleged propaganda funding network
Greece’s Economic Prosecutor has launched a formal investigation into communications firms V+O Group and Blue Skies S.A., following reports they played a central role in funding a covert digital propaganda network benefiting the ruling New Democracy party.
At the center of the inquiry are Thomas Varvitsiotis and Yiannis Olympios, co-owners of both firms. V+O, one of Greece’s largest PR agencies, is partially owned (70%) by multinational group SEC Newgate. Blue Skies is suspected of financing the so-called “Truth Team”, an unofficial online media network accused of attacking government critics and promoting pro-government narratives.
Focus on Financial Irregularities
According to tovima, investigators are examining possible offenses including tax evasion, fictitious transactions, and money laundering. According to reports, the Economic Police have reached out to clients of both companies for detailed financial records. Authorities may later broaden the probe to examine violations of political finance laws.
Blurring Lines Between State and Party
The Truth Team reportedly emerged in 2018 and included individuals who moved between party communication roles and government positions. Investigative outlet Inside Story linked the operation to figures such as Orsaki Roussetou, once part of the Prime Minister’s Office and a known target of Predator spyware, and Giorgos Tzanoudakis and Christos Tzelis, both connected to government-linked contracts.
Critics argue the network blurred the line between public communication and partisan propaganda, raising concerns over the use of state resources and private funds to manipulate public opinion and discredit opposition voices.
SYRIZA Calls for Judicial Action
Opposition party SYRIZA has filed a formal complaint demanding a full judicial investigation. Leader Sokratis Famellos alleged that Team Truth’s funding constituted illegal propaganda operations, possibly involving both public and private money, in violation of Greek political finance laws. SYRIZA also notified the Anti-Money Laundering Authority and submitted inquiries in Parliament.
Government Denial
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis dismissed the accusations, stating at the Delphi Economic Forum that the team was paid by private individuals. “A private individual received payment from other private individuals, and for some people this is a horrifying revelation,” he said.
However, the case has attracted renewed scrutiny, especially after claims emerged that members of the network targeted not only political opponents but also relatives of victims of the 2023 Tempi train disaster.
