French Researcher Denied Quick Release by Russian Court Amid Espionage Accusations

A Russian court extended French researcher Laurent Vinatier's detention till February 21, accusing him of collecting military information without registering as a foreign agent. France claims his detention is arbitrary and has demanded his release. Vinatier was arrested in a Moscow restaurant by FSB officers. Russia argues the arrest aligns with their laws.

A Russian court has extended the detention of French researcher Laurent Vinatier until February 21, amid accusations of collecting military information without registering as a foreign agent, Russia's RIA news agency reported on Tuesday.

Independent news outlet Mediazona quoted Vinatier's lawyer, who stated that the Frenchman had admitted guilt. Consequently, the defense has requested a swift verdict from the court.

The French government deemed Vinatier's detention as arbitrary and has called for his immediate release. Arrested last June at a Moscow restaurant by masked officers of the FSB security service, Vinatier's legal battle has highlighted increasing tensions between France and Russia following other high-profile international incidents.

According to the FSB, Vinatier had pleaded guilty to the allegations in July, which carry a possible five-year sentence. His name did not appear in the recent East-West prisoner exchange involving 24 detainees, including Americans, Germans, and Russian dissidents.

Russia cited deteriorating France-Russia relations, exacerbated by the recent formal investigation in France against Telegram founder Pavel Durov, as additional context. French President Emmanuel Macron has dismissed claims that Vinatier worked for the French state, labeling his arrest as part of Moscow's disinformation campaign.

Vinatier, associated with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, routinely engaged with a broad range of officials and experts in conflict resolution efforts globally. However, the FSB claims he attempted to gather military details potentially useful to foreign intelligence services, violating Russian security laws.

Under Russian legislation, individuals must register with the justice ministry as foreign agents if engaged in political activities or collecting military information with external assistance.

(With inputs from agencies.)