Russia Attempts to Influence French Prisoners' Situation
A French citizen, Laurent Vinatier, held in Russia for suspected data gathering concerning the Russian military, is set for trial in early September: The court in Moscow confirms that Vinatier's trial begins on September 3, as stated on their website. If found guilty, the 48-year-old associate of a Swiss non-profit organization could face up to five years behind bars.
Vinatier had previously worked for the Swiss organization Humanitarian Dialogue before his June arrest. With expertise in Russia and former Soviet republics, the organization's role is to mediate and diplomatically resolve conflicts worldwide, as per their website. France has consistently advocated for Vinatier's release, calling his detention "unjustified."
Russian officials accuse Vinatier of neglecting to register as a "foreign agent." They claim that he amassed classified military information that could potentially be utilized by foreign entities against Russia. At an earlier trial, Vinatier conceded to lawbreaking and expressed remorse. He continues to be incarcerated in pre-trial custody. The trial will take place at the Samoskworezki District Court in Moscow.
Under Russian law, people collecting or disseminating information about Russian military or intelligence forces are required to sign up as "foreign agents" with the authorities. In recent times, individuals from Western countries, primarily the US, have frequently been detained in Russia. The US denounces such practices as hostage-taking to secure the release of Russian prisoners abroad.
In August, a significant number of detainees from both the West and Russia were freed, marking the largest prisoner swap between the two parties. Included in these releases were several Germans and US journalist Evan Gershkovich.
Vinatier's association with the Swiss organization spans several [Years], as he previously worked for Humanitarian Dialogue before his arrest. If found guilty and sentenced, Vinatier could spend the remainder of his [Years] in a Russian prison.
