Three Detained in Paris on Charges of Espionage and Russian Interference

Three individuals have been charged and detained in Paris following investigations into economic espionage and interference favoring Russia. Vyacheslav P., a 40-year-old Russian national, was caught on surveillance footage in early September affixing pro-Russian posters on the Arc de Triomphe. He reportedly communicated this activity by phone to Anna M., a 40-year-old Franco-Russian and founder of the association SOS Donbass. Authorities suspect Anna M. of soliciting economic intelligence from executives in French companies for Moscow's benefit.

The French General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI) identified suspicious activities involving Anna M. since early 2025, prompting a preliminary investigation into acts potentially harming the nation's fundamental interests. A judge was appointed in March to probe charges of "intelligence with a foreign power," an offense punishable by up to ten years imprisonment. The third detained individual is Vincent P., a 63-year-old man from Seine-Saint-Denis.

A fourth suspect, Bernard F., aged 58 from Paris, has avoided pre-trial detention but remains under stringent judicial control, including weekly police reporting and surrendering identification documents. He is barred from engaging in activities related to France’s international politics, Russian politics, or providing assistance connected to the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.

The association SOS Donbass, registered in September 2022 and publicly declaring itself as a humanitarian organization aiding civilians in the Donbass region of Ukraine, is suspected by the DGSI to be a front for espionage and activities aiming at destabilization. This case highlights ongoing concerns over Russian influence operations and espionage efforts within France.