The Vilnius newspaper reports links between a lecturer at the University of Białystok’s Vilnius branch and a Russian fund, while the university rector confirms that the lawyer no longer works there.
Polish Lawyer and the Russian Fund
“Kurier Wileński” cites investigations by reporters from the Lithuanian broadcaster LRT that described the activities of the Russian Fund for Support and Protection of the Rights of Citizens Living Abroad, commonly known as Pravfond. The organization was founded in 2011 by Dmitrij Miedwiedyev and its operations are overseen by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to the newspaper, European state services have previously highlighted Pravfond’s ties to Russian authorities and warned that the fund primarily finances pro‑Russian activists and propagandists in the West, leading to its inclusion on the 2022 sanctions list.
Disciplinary Proceedings
In connection with the fund’s activities, lawyer Ryszard Burda, who once defended an FSB officer, has come under scrutiny. The newspaper reported that since 2018, Burda received a total of €60,000 in transfers for his work on behalf of Pravfond. Burda stated that he cannot comment, as a disciplinary investigation is ongoing against him at the Bar Association. He noted that Lithuanian authorities, such as the Financial Crime Investigations Service and the police, have so far not presented evidence, suggesting they may also be conducting their own inquiry.
Commentary from the Rector
“Kurier Wileński” reports that Burda was employed at the Vilnius branch of the University of Białystok. Professor Mariusz Popławski, rector of the university, said: “We cannot have full knowledge of every employee’s entire past – where they have worked, whom they belong to. That does not mean we disregard the situation. If doubts arise, we initiate the appropriate procedures.” Radio Białystok, citing the rector, added that the lawyer is no longer a staff member of the branch and that he was expected to submit his resignation.
