💨 Abstract

Russia is releasing French researcher Laurent Vinatier, who was jailed for violating foreign agent laws, in exchange for France freeing Russian basketball player Daniil Kasatkin. Vinatier, 49, was pardoned by President Vladimir Putin after France released Kasatkin, who was detained for alleged hacking involvement. Vinatier was convicted in October 2024 and faced additional espionage charges. The Kremlin had proposed Vinatier's release to France in late December.

Courtesy: Reuters