On 9 December 2025, Vladimir Antonov, former head of Lithuanian Snoras bank and Latvian Krājbanka, was detained in Baden, France, where the Rennes Court of Appeal is now considering Lithuania’s extradition request. Antonov was convicted in Lithuania related to the collapse of these banks and accused of financial crimes involving hundreds of millions of euros. Previously, courts in Russia and other countries denied or delayed his extradition. Investigations revealed Antonov’s collaborations with Russian FSB security services and corruption networks. He reportedly faked his death in 2023 and assumed a false identity in Europe to evade capture. Since March 2025, he has been under arrest in Baden. French authorities continue to evaluate the request carefully due to concerns about Antonov’s safety and claims of political persecution. The case exemplifies complex transnational legal and intelligence entanglements involving Russian influence operations and fugitives in Europe.
Category: Political & Legal Subversion
Subcategory: Lawfare & Legal Pressure
Country: France
Source report: www.kompromat.lv/item.php