A freelance interpreter was removed after allegedly breaching confidentiality during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, raising fears of Russian infiltration.

Confidential notes raise red flags

A freelance interpreter working for the European Commission has been dismissed over suspicions of espionage, after reportedly taking notes during a closed-door meeting between Zelenskyy and European Union (EU) heads of state in Brussels in December 2024.

According to Le Monde, the interpreter — identified as Ms M, a dual French and Ukrainian national of Russian descent — was observed by colleagues from the Czech delegation taking handwritten notes in the interpreting booth. Note-taking is strictly prohibited in such high-level diplomatic contexts, particularly when national security is at stake.

Internal investigation, international implications

The incident took place as EU leaders were discussing Ukraine’s military posture and European support, shortly after the re-election of United States (US) President Donald Trump, who had vowed to end the war in 24 hours. The European Commission’s internal security team intervened, confiscated the notes, and expelled the interpreter from the building.

An internal investigation was carried out, and the Commission decided to end its collaboration with the interpreter permanently. The case has been referred to Belgian authorities, who will determine whether further legal action is warranted.

A trusted professional under scrutiny

Ms. M has worked as a freelance interpreter for more than 20 years, serving NATO, French ministries, and various EU institutions. Despite allegations to the contrary, she maintains that her work has consistently upheld confidentiality and professional ethics. However, she has since been blacklisted by Ukrainian authorities, who suspect she may have ties to Russian officials.

A broader climate of mistrust

The dismissal comes at a tense moment for EU institutions, already under scrutiny over foreign influence operations, including recent allegations involving Chinese lobbying networks. The incident underscores the strategic sensitivity of language work in diplomacy—and the vulnerabilities that can arise when interpreters are among the few people present behind closed doors.