Russia proposes options for jailed French researcher
Russia has put forward a proposal to France concerning Laurent Vinatier, a French researcher incarcerated for breaching Russia’s foreign agent laws, and the ball is now in Paris’s court, reports BritPanorama.
Vinatier was sentenced in 2024 to three years in prison for failing to comply with regulations mandating individuals labeled “foreign agents” to register and adhere to various stipulations. He is currently facing additional espionage charges.
France has characterized Vinatier’s detention as arbitrary and has called for his release. President Emmanuel Macron has asserted that Vinatier did not work for the French state and labeled his arrest as part of a misinformation campaign orchestrated by Moscow.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that discussions had occurred with France regarding Vinatier’s situation. “There were indeed relevant contacts between us and the French,” Peskov informed reporters. “Indeed, an offer was made to the French about this. The ball is in France’s court right now.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin also remarked earlier this month that he would examine Vinatier’s case.
The situation underscores the intricate dynamics of international relations and the challenges faced by individuals caught in the geopolitical crossfire.
