Three Bulgarian men are currently facing trial in Paris for their alleged involvement in spray-painting blood-red hands on the city’s Holocaust Memorial. This act of vandalism, which occurred last year, has been linked by French intelligence services to a broader Russian campaign aimed at destabilizing France and other Western societies. Approximately 500 red hands were painted on a wall commemorating those who aided Jews during World War II, as well as in nearby neighborhoods. Initially, the graffiti was interpreted in the context of the Gaza conflict, which has heightened antisemitic tensions across Europe. However, court documents reveal that French intelligence believes this act was part of a long-term Russian strategy to sow division, inflame social tensions, and disseminate misinformation through paid proxies. European governments have increasingly accused Russia of orchestrating sabotage campaigns, including vandalism, arson, and bombing attempts. Four Bulgarians were charged in this case, but only three are in custody and present for the trial. The alleged ringleader, Mircho Angelov, remains at large. Georgi Filipov, the first to testify, admitted to painting the red hands in exchange for 1,000 euros to support his 9-year-old son. He claimed he was unaware of the antisemitic implications until after returning to Bulgaria. Kiril Milushev, another defendant, testified that he filmed the graffiti for 500 euros and expressed regret for his involvement. Nikolay Ivanov, the third defendant, denied any pro-Russian connections and stated he merely assisted a friend by purchasing travel tickets and hotel accommodations. The defendants face charges of criminal conspiracy and aggravated degradation of property based on race, ethnicity, or religion, with potential prison sentences if convicted. Plaintiffs in the case include the Paris Holocaust Memorial and the League against Racism and Antisemitism. This trial marks the first of several unusual incidents in France over the past two years, including the appearance of blue Stars of David on Paris buildings, coffins at the Eiffel Tower, and severed pigs’ heads near mosques, all of which are under investigation for potential Russian involvement.