Camilla Jessen
French security services detain alleged Russian operatives.
French counterintelligence officers have arrested two people linked to a pro-Russian organization, accusing them of acting on behalf of Moscow’s secret services.
The case, reported by Le Parisien and later detailed by Reuters, has triggered a major investigation into suspected foreign interference.
Authorities say the suspects used humanitarian activities as a cover for intelligence gathering and influence operations on French soil.
Espionage allegations
The General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI) detained Vincent Perfetti, head of the association “SOS Donbass,” and its founder, Anna Novikova.
The pair are accused of “conspiracy with a foreign state,” “collecting intelligence” for that state, and forming criminal groups.
According to Le Parisien, DGSI investigators believe Novikova and Perfetti were effectively working for Russian intelligence while running an organization publicly dedicated to assisting residents of the Donbass region.
Novikova, who holds both Russian and French citizenship, has been under surveillance since early 2024. Investigators reportedly uncovered attempts to obtain information from French companies “regarding the economic interests” of the country.
Years of scrutiny
Russian state outlet RIA Novosti has acknowledged Novikova’s cooperation with its agency, and TASS previously reported that she had been questioned in France over suspicions of diverting donations to the Russian military.
Reuters notes that Novikova could face up to 45 years in prison and a €600,000 fine if convicted.
Perfetti, known for leading the European chapter of the Night Wolves motorcycle club and organizing pro-Russian demonstrations, is also believed to have used trips to Russian-occupied territories for covert meetings.
Both suspects deny committing any crime, describing themselves instead as “pro-Russian activists.”
Third suspect detained
A third man linked to the association, identified as 40-year-old Vyacheslav P., was also taken into custody.
He is accused of participating in a criminal organization and vandalizing a state-protected monument “in the interests of a foreign power.”
Investigators say he placed posters depicting Russian soldiers on the Arc de Triomphe. While he has not been jailed, he must report to police weekly as the investigation continues.
Sources: Le Parisien, Reuters, RIA Novosti, TASS, Digi24
