Washington, D.C. – January 08, 2026 – Hostage Aid joyfully welcomes the release of Laurent Vinatier, a French national who was wrongfully detained in Russia since June 2024.

Laurent, a French researcher, was serving a three-year prison sentence after being convicted under Russia’s “foreign agent” laws, which require individuals deemed to fall under that designation to register with Russian authorities. While incarcerated, he was later subjected to additional investigation on espionage-related allegations.

His release followed a prisoner exchange in which France released a jailed Russian basketball player. Mr. Vinatier was subsequently pardoned by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“Today, we witness another victory for freedom,” said Nizar Zakka, President of Hostage Aid Worldwide. “Every day that an unlawful detainee walks free is a good day. We are relieved and overjoyed by Laurent’s release, and applaud the sustained efforts of the French government and all those who worked tirelessly to secure his freedom. France’s consistent dedication and perseverance to bringing its citizens home and defending their freedoms sets a standard of leadership that should be mirrored across the European Union.”

Hostage Aid Worldwide remains committed to advocating for the release of all hostages and wrongful detainees worldwide.