Montenegro Expels Founder of Russian Pro-War Rybar Telegram Channel Citing Dangerous Activities
Montenegrin authorities are expelling Mikhail Zvinchuk, founder of the Russian pro-war Telegram channel Rybar, alongside his wife and three employees. Law enforcement stated they prevented potentially dangerous activities by the group.
Key points
- Montenegro is expelling Mikhail Zvinchuk, founder of the pro-war Russian Telegram channel Rybar.
- Expulsion orders were also issued for Zvinchuk's wife and three employees who were detained with him.
- Montenegrin law enforcement stated they prevented potentially dangerous activity by the individuals.
- Zvinchuk entered Montenegro despite being on EU sanctions lists, attributing his entry to border guard incompetence.
What Happened
Montenegrin authorities have detained and issued expulsion orders for Mikhail Zvinchuk, the founder of the Russian pro-war Telegram channel Rybar. Zvinchuk's wife and three of his employees were also detained and ordered expelled from the country, according to law enforcement authorities.
Montenegrin law enforcement stated in an official release that they had prevented potentially dangerous activity by these individuals within Montenegro.
Context
Zvinchuk stated that he arrived in Montenegro a day prior to his detention. Despite being on European Union sanctions lists—which Montenegro typically mirrors—he managed to enter the country. Zvinchuk suggested that his successful entry was due to a border guard's incompetence.
What's Next
The detained individuals face expulsion from Montenegro following the orders issued by local authorities.
Why it matters
The expulsion highlights enforcement actions by Montenegrin authorities regarding individuals on EU sanctions lists operating within the country.
What we know
- Montenegro is expelling Mikhail Zvinchuk, founder of the Russian pro-war Telegram channel Rybar.
- Expulsion orders also cover Zvinchuk's wife and three employees.
- Montenegrin law enforcement stated they prevented potentially dangerous activity.
- Zvinchuk entered Montenegro despite being on EU sanctions lists and attributed his entry to border guard incompetence.
How the story developed
Detention and Expulsion Orders Emerge
News of the detention and expulsion of Mikhail Zvinchuk, his wife, and three employees emerged on the morning of October 9.
Original source
