Putin Vows to Investigate Case of French Researcher Imprisoned on Espionage Charges in Russia

President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that he would investigate the situation surrounding French researcher Laurent Vinatier, who is imprisoned in Russia for not registering as a «foreign agent» and is now facing new espionage charges that could result in a 20-year sentence.

Vinatier, affiliated with a Swiss NGO focused on conflict mediation, was incarcerated in June 2024, and is currently serving a three-year sentence, while also confronting new allegations of espionage.

«I am not familiar with this case. This is the first time I am hearing about it,» Putin remarked regarding Vinatier’s situation, which has received considerable coverage from French and international media outlets.

«However, I assure you that I will certainly look into it. If there is even the slightest opportunity to resolve this matter positively, and if Russian law permits, we will make every effort,» Putin continued during his annual televised “Direct Line” call-in event.

Vinatier is among several Western nationals who have been detained since Putin commenced the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Multiple U.S. citizens have been arrested and subsequently released as part of prisoner swaps facilitated by both former President Donald Trump and his successor, Joe Biden.

Vinatier’s family has dismissed the charges against him, asserting that he is a victim of the diplomatic strains between Moscow and Paris stemming from Russia’s military actions.