Russian security chief claims foreign powers using NGOs as spies

RUSSIA’S security chief said yesterday that his agency has uncovered US, British, Kuwaiti and Saudi spy activity that was being conducted by non-governmental organisations.

The head of the Federal Security Service or FSB, Nikolai Patrushev, also suggested that foreign countries are using NGOs to influence Russian political and economic activity in their interests and support changes of power in former Soviet republics.

Mr Patrushev’s remarks reflected concern in President Vladimir Putin’s Kremlin as it grapples with waning regional influence following the ascent of pro-Western governments in ex-Soviet states. The Kremlin is also worried about outside influence within Russia amid US accusations of backsliding on democracy.