Independent investigator releases findings on Videogate case in Cyprus

Independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalidis submitted his report regarding the 'Videogate' case to the Attorney General on July 17, 2026. The investigation focused on an eight-minute video posted on January 8, 2026, by an account named 'Emily Thompson' on the X platform. Paschalidis characterized the material as a hybrid attack against the Republic of Cyprus, a sentiment previously expressed by President Nikos Christodoulides. While the investigator concluded that no criminal offenses were identified, his public announcement sparked criticism from legal experts. Lawyers, including Simos Angelidis and Christos Kliridis, argued the findings are vague, ambiguous, and fail to address potential influence peddling, especially noting that some individuals in the case received financial benefits. The government, represented by Victor Papadopoulos and Constantinos Letymbiotis, stated it is not their jurisdiction to release the report and emphasized the need to identify who commissioned the video. Consequently, the Attorney General approved an extension of Paschalidis' mandate until December 31, 2026, to allow for further investigation into the origin and motives behind the production.