Russia Calls for Release of Russian-French Detained in Spy Row

Russia has appealed to France for the release of Anna Novikova, a Russian-French national detained last year over espionage allegations.

Novikova, who founded a humanitarian organization aiding people in Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine, is among three individuals the Paris prosecutor’s office accused of spying for a foreign power last November. She allegedly sought information from French business executives about French economic interests.

Russian Foreign Ministry representative Maria Zakharova criticized Novikova's detention as unfounded, stating the case reflects a 'spy mania' gripping Europe. Zakharova demanded an end to what she called repression of individuals voicing dissenting opinions from Paris' official stance.