Russian Detained in Paris on Suspicion of Plotting Olympic Games Disruption

On July 23, French authorities detained a Russian citizen suspected of planning actions intended to disrupt the upcoming Olympic Games. A search of the man’s residence uncovered evidence suggesting he was preparing for “events that could lead to destabilization during the Olympic Games,” according to CNN.

Specific details regarding the suspect’s suspected plans remain undisclosed by the prosecutor’s office.

The man currently faces a preliminary investigation on charges of “intelligence activities with a foreign state with the aim of provoking military actions in France.” If convicted, he could face a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

This incident comes amidst heightened security measures for the Olympics. Last week, the French Interior Ministry announced the denial of entry to roughly 4,000 individuals, with a specific focus on citizens from Russia and Belarus.

The highly anticipated opening ceremony for the Olympic Games is scheduled for Friday evening, July 26, in Paris.

Previously, France has implemented stringent measures ahead of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, barring nearly 100 foreign journalists, physiotherapists, and technical staff, citing concerns over potential espionage threats.