Russian nationals detained in Sweden during camping trip

Russian nationals Semjon Rusanov and Tatjana Milenina have been detained in Sweden after being stopped while camping near Gävle. The couple, who have resided in Spain since 2021 and have applied for Spanish citizenship, were reportedly flagged by authorities after a complaint regarding their Russian accents and the possession of a two-way radio.

According to their lawyer, Silas Aliki, police suggested the couple may have deliberately pitched their tent near the summer cottage of a protected person. The couple has been moved to a detention center managed by the Swedish Migration Agency. Authorities informed them that they pose a threat to Sweden's internal security.

The couple, who identify as opponents of the war in Ukraine, face the possibility of being deported to Russia if their Spanish residency is revoked, or being sent back to Spain with a ban on entering Sweden. They expressed fear regarding a potential return to Russia, where their political stances could lead to prosecution.