Spajic calls for thorough checks after Zvinchuk's detention

Montenegro's Prime Minister Milojko Spajic called for a thorough examination of the circumstances after authorities detained Rybar Telegram channel founder Mikhail Zvinchuk and his team.

In an X post on 9 October, Spajic linked the operation to threats of hybrid interference and destabilisation. He urged against hasty statements and said serious indications warranted investigation. The prime minister said state institutions were carrying out their work and defending Montenegro's interests.

Local outlet Standard reported that police and the National Security Agency detained Mikhail Zvinchuk, his wife Valeria and three other people in Risan that morning. The prime minister confirmed the operation.

Police later announced a decision to expel all five on national and internal security grounds, Associated Press reported. The statements describe the Montenegrin authorities' position on the operation. They did not disclose specific evidence of the alleged destabilisation.