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Russian authorities have taken into custody Robert Shonov, a former employee with more than 25 years of service at the U.S. consulate located in Vladivostok. He is being held under suspicion of collecting intelligence related to Russia’s activities in Ukraine, Fox News reported.
Robert Shonov Former Employee In U.S. Consulate; Suspected Of Gathering Intel About Russia’s Move For Ukraine!(PHOTO:
USNews.com)
Robert Shonov Suspected Of Gathering Intel About Russia’s Move
According to Russia’s primary domestic security agency, the Federal Security Service (FSB), Robert Shonov is accused of gathering data regarding specific military operations, mobilization procedures within various parts of Russia, and how these factors might influence protests in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election.
Robert Shonov’s arrest, first reported in May, is believed to be linked to his role in gathering information for U.S. diplomats. The FSB claims that two U.S. diplomats instructed him to collect the information. Robert Shonov is facing charges under a new Russian law that criminalizes cooperation with foreign states or organizations against Russia’s security interests. This broad formulation could potentially be used to target individuals with foreign connections, carrying a prison sentence of up to eight years.
The U.S. State Department has condemned Robert Shonov’s arrest, asserting that his primary role at the time of his detainment was compiling media summaries from publicly available Russian media sources. The State Department argues that his arrest highlights Russia’s use of repressive laws against its citizens.
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Robert Shonov’s Arrest
Robert Shonov’s arrest is part of a larger pattern of crackdowns on dissent and foreign influence in Russia. Evan Gershkovich, an American reporter for The Wall Street Journal, is also held in custody in Moscow‘s Lefortovo prison on espionage charges that he, his employer, and the U.S. government deny. Gershkovich’s arrest has caused outrage among journalists and the international community, with the United States demanding his immediate release.
In conclusion, the arrest of Robert Shonov, a former U.S. consulate employee, on suspicions of gathering information about Russia’s actions in Ukraine reflects a broader crackdown on perceived dissent and foreign influence in Russia. The use of repressive laws to target individuals with foreign connections raises concerns about freedom of expression and human rights in the country.
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