French authorities have detained four individuals, including Russian nationals, as part of an investigation into espionage activities linked to a pro-Russia support group. The arrests were made in Paris and involve members of the SOS Donbass organization, which was established in France in 2022. Among those taken into custody is Anna N., a dual French-Russian citizen and founder of the group.
The General Directorate of Internal Security (DGSI), France’s domestic intelligence agency, had been monitoring Anna N. for several months prior to the arrests. According to the Paris prosecutor’s office, she is suspected of gathering intelligence on French companies, aiming to obtain sensitive information about the country’s economic interests. The investigation intensified as French President Emmanuel Macron raised concerns regarding Russian destabilization efforts targeting France, a prominent supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
The detained individuals include Vyacheslav P., a 40-year-old Russian national, as well as French nationals Vincent P., aged 63, and Bernard F., aged 58. The prosecutor’s office reported that Anna N. and Vincent P. face preliminary charges of criminal conspiracy, maintaining intelligence contacts with a foreign power, and gathering information for a foreign power. Each of these offenses carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines.
Vyacheslav P. is specifically accused of past activities, including affixing pro-Russia posters to the Arc de Triomphe in September, which depicted a Russian soldier with the phrase, “say thank you to the victorious Soviet soldier.” Video footage identified him as the individual responsible for placing these posters on the iconic Paris landmark. He remains in custody facing charges of criminal conspiracy and property damage linked to service for a foreign power.
The prosecutor’s office has also filed preliminary charges against Bernard F., who is not currently in detention but is prohibited from leaving France and required to report to authorities weekly.
Founded by Anna N. after her visit to the Donbas region of Ukraine, SOS Donbass has characterized itself as a humanitarian NGO. The organization claims to provide aid to residents affected by the ongoing conflict, asserting a mission to foster peace between Europe and Russia. Its website conveys sentiments such as “Russia is not my enemy,” alongside imagery reflecting Russian national colors.
French government officials have indicated an uptick in Russian operations targeting France through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and other destabilizing tactics. These efforts are part of a broader strategy against countries supporting Ukraine, with a mapping project revealing numerous incidents across Europe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022.
In response to these developments, President Macron stated that Russia is conducting “hybrid wars” against European nations, employing various proxies and mercenaries to execute destabilization activities. The recent arrests underscore the ongoing concerns around espionage and foreign influence in France.
