France expels 6 Russian agents after counter-espionage operation

PARIS

France is expelling six Russian agents operating under diplomatic cover following a counter-espionage operation on a clandestine network, the French government announced Monday.

The Foreign Ministry declared that the six Russian agents, whose activities proved contrary to France’s national interests, have been declared persona non grata. In the absence of the Russian envoy, the second in command in Paris has been summoned to be informed of this decision, the ministry’s statement said.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Twitter that he was informed about a “remarkable counterintelligence operation” by the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI) that “hindered a network of Russian clandestine agents who were working against our interests.”

“The agents involved will have to leave the national territory,” he announced, commending the DGSI’s work protecting the country’s fundamental interests. ​​​​​​​

Earlier in the month, Paris expelled 35 Russian diplomats whose activities it said were contrary to its security interests. The expulsion was part of a Europe-wide approach after mass atrocities by Russian forces in the liberated city Bucha in Ukraine came to light.