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Dramatic Protest at Russian Consulate: French Researchers Arrested for Bombing Attempt
In a bold move capturing global attention, two French researchers are slated for court after a spectacular protest outside the Russian consulate in Marseille, sparked by the relentless conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
French authorities revealed on Wednesday that the researchers, affiliated with France’s esteemed CNRS research agency, admitted to launching makeshift explosive devices at the consulate. Their actions were fueled by outrage over the ongoing war.
In a stark reminder of the war’s impact, the protest unfolded on Monday, coinciding with the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, when the duo hurled three plastic bottles over the consulate’s gates.
Two of those bottles erupted upon impact, releasing a dangerous cocktail of nitrogen and other chemical substances. Fortunately, the incident resulted in no injuries or damages, but it has ignited a wave of concern within the diplomatic community.
Moscow Calls Out ‘Terrorist’ Attack with Strong Condemnation
Two Researchers Charged Amid Tensions Between Russia and Ukraine
In a gripping turn of events, two researchers—a skilled engineer and a seasoned chemist—are set to face a judge this Thursday amid serious allegations.
Marseille prosecutor Nicolas Bessone stated that both individuals “have rationalized their actions in light of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine,” raising questions about their motivations.
The researchers stand accused of causing damage to property “by means dangerous to persons” and engaging in the “unauthorized manufacture of explosive or incendiary devices,” Bessone disclosed.
The CNRS, a prominent research organization, operates across a spectrum of scientific domains, with over 1,100 laboratories spread throughout France. It boasts a workforce of approximately 33,000, including many researchers hailing from the former Soviet Union.
In a strong response, Moscow has labeled the incident a “terrorist attack,” while the French government has firmly condemned “any violation of the security of diplomatic compounds.”
Russia Opens Major Investigation Amidst Rising Tensions
Shocking Attack on Russian Consulate Amid Pro-Ukraine Protest in Marseille.
In a dramatic turn of events, two men aged in their forties and fifties were apprehended during a pro-Ukraine demonstration outside the town hall in Marseille on Monday. The incident has sent ripples of concern throughout the diplomatic community.
The Russian embassy in Paris had previously alerted French authorities, urging them to enhance security around their diplomatic missions. They warned of potential provocations leading up to the incident.
In light of the shocking attack, the embassy expressed its alarm, stating, “Despite our warnings, these horrifying acts still took place.”
Meanwhile, Russia’s Investigative Committee, responsible for probing major crimes, announced on Tuesday that it has initiated its own investigation. They are in the process of preparing a formal “international request for legal assistance” in response to the incident.
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