Russian Court Extends Detention of French Citizen Laurent Vinatier

A Russian court has extended the pre-trial detention of French citizen Laurent Vinatier until September 5. Vinatier pleaded guilty in June to failing to register as a foreign agent while collecting information on the Russian military. He faces a potential five-year prison sentence.

A Russian court has decided to extend the pre-trial detention of French citizen Laurent Vinatier until September 5, a Reuters witness reported on Wednesday.

Vinatier admitted guilt in June to a charge of not registering as a foreign agent while gathering information about the Russian military. His actions could lead to a prison sentence of up to five years.

The extension comes amidst heightened scrutiny of foreign nationals accused of espionage or non-compliance with Russian laws.

(With inputs from agencies.)