(NewsNation) — French authorities have arrested a 40-year-old Russian man living in France for allegedly plotting a “large-scale” act of destabilization at the upcoming Paris Olympics, officials said this week.
The suspect, who had reportedly been living in France for 14 years, was charged with conducting intelligence work on behalf of a foreign power. Investigators discovered evidence during a raid on his Paris home, including a document linked to a special forces unit operating under the FSB, Russia’s intelligence agency, The Guardian reported.
The arrest comes as Paris ramps up security measures for the Olympics. Authorities have banned 5,000 people who failed background checks from attending events and deployed thousands of extra police officers from around the world.
Tensions are high due to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, with officials concerned about potential security threats. A former intelligence agent suggested that bad actors might attempt to make a statement during the high-profile event.
In a separate incident, arson attacks on France’s high-speed railway network have caused transportation disruptions, affecting some athletes’ travel to Olympic ceremonies. French authorities described the sabotage as “prepared and coordinated,” with repairs being “meticulous.”
Three fires were reported near the tracks on the high-speed lines of Atlantique, Nord and Est. French officials condemned the attacks as “criminal actions.”
Train services are gradually being restored, but delays are expected to persist through the weekend. The investigation into the railway attacks is ongoing, with suspects still at large and no clear motive established.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.