Mikhail Zvinchuk returns to Russia after deportation from Montenegro

Mikhail Zvinchuk, the founder of the influential pro-Russian Telegram channel ‘Ribar’, has returned to Russia via Belgrade after being deported from Montenegro. Zvinchuk, along with his wife Valeriya and three associates, was detained in the coastal town of Risan on October 9 following a request to film a documentary at the Cetinje Monastery.

Montenegrin authorities declared the group a threat to national and internal security, leading to their expulsion. During the detention, police seized high-resolution digital equipment, including drones and cameras, which officials stated would undergo forensic analysis to determine their purpose. Zvinchuk alleged that Montenegrin law enforcement violated procedures during the investigation, noting a lack of Russian-language support during questioning.

The repatriation was coordinated by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and intelligence agencies. Zvinchuk stated that the return was facilitated by the efforts of Russian diplomats, including spokesperson Maria Zakharova. While the group has left the country, Zvinchuk indicated that the team may return to the Balkans to continue their documentary work and intends to pursue legal action through a Belgrade law firm regarding the seized equipment.