Russia detains French national accused of military espionage

According to reports, Laurent Vinatier, a 48-year-old French citizen and consultant with the Swiss-based Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, has been detained by Russian authorities. The NGO claims that Vinatier was arrested for allegedly gathering information about Russia's military activities and failing to register as a "foreign agent". The Center for Humanitarian Dialogue, which describes its main activity as preventing and resolving armed conflicts through mediation and discreet diplomacy, has stated that they are working to secure Vinatier's release. Online profiles suggest that Vinatier is an expert on the Chechen conflict, Russia, and central Asia.