On October 9, 2026, Mykhailo Zvinchuk, the founder of the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel 'Rybar', was arrested in Montenegro. The arrest was part of an operation aimed at countering hybrid threats associated with Russian influence in the region.
Reasons for the Arrest
Mykhailo Zvinchuk is reportedly a colonel in the GRU, responsible for hybrid operations. His arrest was made possible through cooperation between Montenegrin police and the U.S. National Security Agency. Zvinchuk is suspected of attempting to interfere in the U.S. elections, for which the U.S. had offered a reward of $10 million.
Details of the Arrest
Zvinchuk arrived in Montenegro despite sanctions and a travel ban. Before his arrest, he publicly boasted about crossing the border due to a “dumb border guard” who failed to check his data in the database. During the arrest, drones were found in his possession, raising concerns among local law enforcement.
Reactions from Montenegrin Authorities
The Prime Minister of Montenegro, Milojko Spajić, confirmed Zvinchuk's arrest and stated that the country continues to protect its interests from destabilization attempts. He emphasized that Montenegro will not allow its European future to be threatened. Zvinchuk's wife, Valeria, who is on the UK sanctions list, and three of his associates were also arrested.