Newsroom
The controversial ''VideoGate'' footage that shook Cyprus earlier this year was not evidence of wrongdoing but an edited video allegedly created as part of an effort to damage the reputation of the Republic of Cyprus, according to the findings of an independent investigation.
Independent criminal investigator Andreas Paschalidis, who examined the footage and the allegations that followed its release, said there was no evidence that the Cypriot individuals featured in the video had committed criminal offenses.
Instead, investigators concluded that the video published on social media platform X on January 8, 2026, was not an authentic recording but a manipulated version of a much longer recording that had been edited to create a particular impression.
The findings bring some relief to those involved, but they also leave a major question unanswered: Who was behind the video, and what was the real motive behind its release?
A scandal that shook the presidency
The video sparked widespread reactions when it appeared online, raising allegations about possible corruption, political influence, and questionable dealings involving Cypriot figures.
The controversy led to the resignation of President Nikos Christodoulides’ director of office, Charalambos Charalambous, while First Lady Philippa Karsera Christodoulides stepped down from her role as head of the Independent Social Support Agency.
The investigation was launched to determine whether the footage revealed any criminal activity.
According to Paschalidis’ findings, nothing criminal was uncovered in relation to the allegations investigated, including claims involving investments, lobbying, election campaign funding, and the operation of the Social Support Agency.
Investigators point to a wider attack
One of the most significant conclusions of the investigation is that the video appears to have been designed not simply to target individuals, but to harm Cyprus as a country.
Paschalidis noted that the video was released just one day after Cyprus assumed the presidency of the Council of the European Union, adding that its timing and characteristics resembled a broader campaign previously used against EU member states.
The investigator described the incident as a possible “hybrid attack" aimed at damaging Cyprus’ image internationally.
The video was edited, investigators say
According to the findings, the original recording lasted around 26 hours, while the footage released publicly showed only selected parts.
Investigators said the edited version had little value as evidence because it did not present the full context of the conversations.
The investigation identified the foreign company believed to be responsible for producing the video, as well as individuals involved in collecting the material.
However, the identity of the company’s client, the person or organization that allegedly commissioned the operation, remains unknown.
Further investigations will continue until the end of 2026 in an effort to uncover who was behind it.
Allegations investigated, no wrongdoing found
Investigators examined several issues raised after the video was released.
These included claims regarding the non-inclusion of a Russian businessman on EU sanctions lists, alleged favorable treatment linked to a construction project in Limassol, campaign financing during the 2023 presidential elections, lobbying activities, and donations to the Independent Social Support Agency.
According to the findings, none of these investigations produced evidence of criminal behavior.
In relation to the Social Support Agency, investigators said claims that it was being used as a channel for suspicious financial exchanges were found to be unfounded.
“Bluster” rather than evidence
Paschalidis said some of the statements made in the video appeared to be exaggerated claims made to create an impression and potentially secure personal financial benefits.
He described some of the comments as “bluster” rather than evidence of actual wrongdoing.
However, he noted that investigators continue to examine whether any actions may fall under European anti-corruption legislation.
What happens next?
While the investigation has cleared the Cypriot individuals involved from criminal allegations, the case is not considered closed.
The biggest remaining mystery is the identity of the person or organization that commissioned the video.
For many Cypriots, the case has now shifted from "What did the video reveal?” to "Who created it, and why?"
