Kremlins Proposal to France Signals Potential Resolution in Case of Imprisoned Researcher Vinatier

The Kremlin announced on Thursday that it has put forward a «proposal» to France concerning Laurent Vinatier, a French researcher imprisoned in Russia on charges of espionage, which could result in a prison sentence of up to two decades.

«We’ve made contact with the French side regarding this matter. In fact, we have presented a proposal concerning Vinatier,» Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov informed the media, though he did not disclose further details. «The next steps are now up to France.»

Vinatier, who is affiliated with a Swiss organization focused on conflict mediation, was detained in June 2024 and subsequently sentenced to three years for not registering as a «foreign agent.» Additional espionage charges have since been levied against him.

Last week, President Vladimir Putin mentioned he would review the situation after a French journalist inquired about Vinatier during his annual press conference.

«I was not aware of this case at all. This is the first time I’m hearing about it,» Putin responded to the journalist. «However, I assure you I will investigate it. If there is even the slightest opportunity to resolve this positively, within the framework of Russian law, we will do everything we can.»

Vinatier is among several Western citizens who have been arrested in Russia since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

During the initial court proceedings, Vinatier, a seasoned expert on Russia, claimed he was unaware of the necessity to register under the «foreign agents» legislation. He expressed remorse and stated that his efforts were aimed at representing Russia’s interests in international discussions.

Human rights organizations and independent observers note that Russian authorities have increasingly leveraged alleged breaches of the «foreign agents» law as a rationale for detaining individuals, subsequently applying more severe criminal charges.

Reporting by AFP was also included.