Russian athlete Kasatkin accused of cybercrime released in shocking prisoner swap

Russian basketball player Daniil Kasatkin26, returned to his home country in January this year after being released from a French prison in a prisoner swap. KasatkinMBA-MAI and defender of the Russian national team was exchanged for Laurent Vinatiera convicted French political scientist. Russia He was also charged with spying in violation of the Foreign Agents Act. The agreement, reached after diplomatic and intelligence negotiations, ended the saga of the athlete’s six-month detention.

Kasatkin He was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Paris June 21, 2025, upon request. united states of americaaccused him of cybercrime. The basketball player has pleaded not guilty, claiming he was the victim of a misunderstanding related to the computer purchase. Despite his explanation, the court Paris Extradition request approved in October 2025 united states of americawhere he faced the possibility of a heavy prison sentence.

As Laurent, VinatierHe was arrested as an employee of a Swiss non-governmental organization. Russia The Russian Ministry of Justice recognized him as a foreign agent and sentenced him to three years in prison on October 14, 2024, for failing to register as a foreign agent. Additionally, on May 21, 2025, Vinatier was charged with espionage. After spending about a year and a half in a Russian prison, he was pardoned by presidential decree. Russian Federation As part of an exchange agreement.

release of Kasatkin was enthusiastically received in Russia. Vladimir DiachokManaging Director Russian Federation A basketball reporter called it “the best news of the new year.” igor KocharyanThe general director of the MBA-MAI club said they are waiting. Kasatkin Training in progress. However, the athlete was unable to practice while incarcerated and complained of poor detention conditions, making his prospects for resuming his professional career uncertain.

Just five days after his release, Daniil Kasatkin I signed a contract with the club.”Enisei‘ of Krasnoyarsk,in VTB United Leagueaway from his previous team, MBA-MAI. This high-profile exchange is not an isolated case and is reminiscent of a precedent with 2022 American basketball player Britney. Greiner The person who replaced it was Russian businessman Viktor. gameAfter being convicted of Russia For drug trafficking.