Brief
Russian war blogger Mikhail Zvinchuk arrested in Montenegro on destabilisation charges
Montenegrin authorities say the arrest was part of a successful operation against a hybrid threat.
By Felo News Desk · Published
An influential Russian war blogger and former defence ministry officer, Mikhail Zvinchuk, was detained on Friday in the coastal town of Risan, Montenegro, officials said. Zvinchuk, who founded the Rybar Telegram channel with over 1.5 million followers and is known for supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, was arrested together with his wife and three others on suspicion of attempting to destabilise the country.
What happened
Prime Minister Milojko Spajić described the detention as a “successful operation” and warned that hybrid activities have repeatedly threatened Montenegro’s European integration path. Media reports indicated the group planned to film a monastery after notifying authorities, and that Rybar had been in contact with Russia’s Foreign Ministry.
What was said
Spajić said, “Our institutions are doing their job, Montenegro is protecting its interests, and no one will jeopardise our European future.” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russian diplomats would determine the reason for the arrest and protect the detainees’ rights, while Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the Russian embassy was looking into the case.
How it came about
Zvinchuk entered Montenegro despite being on European sanctions lists, claiming a negligent border guard failed to notice his status.
Key facts
- Mikhail Zvinchuk, founder of the Rybar Telegram channel, was arrested in Risan, Montenegro. (independent.co.uk)
- Prime Minister Milojko Spajić called the detention a "successful operation" and warned against hybrid threats. (independent.co.uk)
- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russian diplomats will determine the reason for the arrest. (independent.co.uk)
- Rybar claims to have coordinated with Russia's Foreign Ministry and planned to film a monastery. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Russian pro-war blogger among 5 arrested in Montenegro over alleged destabilization plot”
