Jacques Baud, a retired Swiss colonel and former strategic intelligence officer, has announced plans to challenge European Union sanctions imposed on him earlier this month, accusing him of spreading pro-Russian propaganda related to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
The sanctions, enacted on December 15, 2025, as part of a broader package targeting individuals and entities involved in alleged ”information manipulation and interference,” include an asset freeze and a travel ban across EU territory. Baud, 70, who resides in Brussels, is one of 12 individuals added to the list, which also targeted figures linked to Russia’s Valdai Discussion Club and other alleged propagandists.
According to the EU Council Decision, Baud ”acts as a mouthpiece for pro-Russian propaganda” and promotes ”conspiracy theories,” including claims that Ukraine orchestrated events leading to Russia’s 2022 invasion to facilitate NATO membership. The measures stem from a framework established in 2024 to counter Russia’s ”destabilising activities,” including hybrid threats.
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Baud, a former analyst for Swiss strategic intelligence, NATO, and UN peacekeeping operations, has authored several books on geopolitics and the Ukraine conflict, often drawing on Western and Ukrainian sources to critique official narratives.
Critics, including media outlets and think tanks, have accused him of relaying disinformation and appearing on platforms perceived as pro-Kremlin.
In statements to Swiss media shortly after the sanctions were announced, Baud expressed intent to fight the decision legally. His lawyers plan to appeal directly to the EU Council, and he has indicated he will lodge a case with the European Court of Justice.
”I will challenge this,” Baud told reporters, describing the measures as punitive without due process.
Switzerland, while aligning with most EU sanctions against Russia since the 2022 invasion, has declined to adopt this specific regime targeting ”hybrid threats.” The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is reviewing appeal options for Baud but provided limited direct assistance, forwarding only general procedural information.
The case has sparked debate over freedom of expression and the use of sanctions against dissenting analysts. Supporters argue the measures represent ideological enforcement, while proponents say they are necessary to counter alleged disinformation undermining Ukraine’s security.
As of late December, Baud remains in Brussels, where the sanctions have immediate practical impacts, including restricted access to EU-based financial resources. No court hearing has been scheduled yet, but appeals to the EU’s General Court typically follow such listings.
The EU now lists over 2,600 individuals and entities in connection with Russia’s actions in Ukraine, with this package focusing on propaganda and cyberattacks.
Sources
- EU Sanctions Tracker – Jacques Baud
- Swissinfo.ch: Former Swiss intelligence officer targeted by new EU sanctions against Russia
- Swissinfo.ch: Ex-Swiss intelligence officer to appeal EU sanctions for pro-Russia propaganda
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