Russian Spy Ring Busted in Paris: Posters, Propaganda & Secret Intelligence Probe
Paris Police Dismantle Suspected Russian Spy Network Disguised as Humanitarian Group
PARIS — French authorities have arrested three people believed to be working on behalf of Russia to conduct espionage, influence operations, and pro-Kremlin propaganda campaigns in the French capital. The announcement came Tuesday from the Paris prosecutor’s office, following coordinated operations by the domestic intelligence agency DGSI.
The investigation centres on SOS Donbass, a French-Russian association that presents itself as a humanitarian organisation aiding civilians in eastern Ukraine. However, authorities suspect the group acted as a façade for Russian geopolitical interests — specifically the promotion of Moscow’s narrative about its war in Ukraine and the collection of strategic economic information inside France.
Investigators have detained:
- A 40-year-old Russian national, caught earlier this year on camera placing pro-Russian wartime propaganda posters on the Arc de Triomphe.
- A 40-year-old French-Russian woman, the head of SOS Donbass, suspected of using her position to approach executives in major French companies to extract sensitive information.
- A 63-year-old French man from Seine-Saint-Denis, believed to have assisted the operation’s local logistics.
A fourth suspect, a 58-year-old, has not been jailed but is now under strict judicial supervision and must report weekly to authorities.
Long-Term Surveillance
The DGSI had monitored the group since early 2025. By March, officials believed the actions taking place under the SOS Donbass banner were “likely to harm the fundamental interests of the nation,” triggering a formal judicial investigation for collusion with a foreign power — an offence that can result in up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Propaganda & Intelligence Gathering
Evidence indicates that the group may have been involved in:
- Coordinated distribution of pro-Russia war messaging
- Attempts to seed public opinion with Kremlin narratives
- Approaching business figures for economic intelligence
- Using a humanitarian identity as a cover operation
Authorities are now tracing financial flows, contacts abroad, and digital communications to determine whether the suspects acted under direct orders from Russian intelligence services.
A Wider Pattern of Russian Activity in Europe
The arrests come amid growing concerns across Europe about Russian influence networks operating through charities, cultural associations, and diaspora groups. France has publicly warned of an intensified wave of hybrid warfare targeting European democratic institutions.
The investigation remains ongoing, with further detentions not ruled out.
