French Researcher Detained in Moscow for Alleged Military Espionage

Laurent Vinatier, working for a Swiss NGO, faces up to five years in prison for failing to register as a foreign agent.

Vinatier admitted guilt in court and apologized for not registering as a foreign agent.
He is accused of gathering military information that could threaten Russian security.
The French embassy has requested his release, but he remains in pre-trial custody until August 5.
The case adds to the list of Westerners detained in Russia amid heightened tensions with the West.
French President Macron denies Vinatier's connection to the French government, calling the arrest part of a disinformation campaign.