Cetinje:Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov announced that Russian diplomats are pursuing clarification regarding the detention of Mikhail Zvinchuk in Montenegro. Zvinchuk, a Russian military blogger and the founder of the Rybar channel on Telegram, is currently held by Montenegrin authorities.
According to Anadolu Agency, Montenegro's Prime Minister Milojko Spajic described Zvinchuk's detention as part of a 'successful operation,' emphasizing the country's commitment to safeguarding its interests and European future. He noted that Montenegro faces ongoing threats of hybrid interference and destabilization as it pursues its European path. Spajic also mentioned that authorities are scrutinizing evidence and connections while withholding certain sensitive information from the public.
Peskov further stated that Russian diplomats would investigate the reasons for Zvinchuk's detention and ensure his rights are protected, as they would for any Russian citizen.
Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chair of Russia's Security Council, commented on Telegram that European countries have declared a 'hunt' on Russians. He suggested that Moscow might need to consider expanding its pool of European and American detainees for potential exchanges to secure the return of Russian nationals.
The Rybar channel reported that Zvinchuk, along with other Russians, was in Montenegro legally and had planned to film the Cetinje Monastery with official permission. The channel emphasized that all detainees were in the country legally and officially.