Moscow court rules French scientist to remain in prison under ‘foreign agencies’ law

The Moscow City Court on Thursday rejected Vinatier’s request to place him under house arrest.

Vinatier appeared in court via video link, wearing a black T-shirt, sitting behind bars, speaking with a Russian accent and visibly emotional.

“I will try to speak Russian. I am an analyst, researcher, writer… I have always wanted to properly present Russia’s interest and position in international relations in my work,” he said.

“I love Russia, my wife is Russian, my life is connected with Russia,” he told the court, adding: “I don’t understand why I’m here.”

Laurent Vinatier is escorted by a Russian law enforcement officer before a pre-trial hearing in Moscow. Russian security services accuse him of gathering military intelligence. Photo: AFP

His lawyers provided addresses to which he could be transported to be placed under house arrest.

Vinatier said this will allow him to support his wife and children, who are now of school age.

The President of France Emmanuel Macron demanded his release, and the French Consul General in Moscow was present at the trial.

Last month, a court ruled that Vinatier would remain in custody until August 5.

Vinatier is an advisor at the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue in Geneva and an experienced researcher on Russia and other former Soviet countries.

During the offensive in Ukraine, Russia arrested many Western citizens, leading to a breakdown in relations with the West.

American journalist Evan Gershkovich He has been held in Moscow since March last year on charges of espionage, which he denies.