French National Arrested in Russia on Espionage Charges

Russian authorities have detained a French national for allegedly failing to register as a ‘foreign agent,’ a violation under Russian law that could result in several years of imprisonment. The individual is suspected of espionage, accused of gathering information that could threaten the state’s security. According to officials, the suspect made multiple trips to Russia, including visits to Moscow where he engaged with Russian citizens. If found guilty, the man could face up to five years in jail. A released video allegedly shows the man at a restaurant in Moscow, adding to the evidence against him. This arrest adds to a growing list of Westerners detained in Russia on similar charges, heightening diplomatic tensions. Among those currently held is Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, arrested in spring 2023 on charges of spying for the US government.