Crackdown on Russian Propaganda Network in Montenegro
Montenegrin authorities have arrested Mikhail Zvinchuk, the leader of the Russian propaganda network known as Rybář, along with his wife and several associates. The operation took place in the town of Risan and was carried out by the Tivat Security Directorate in cooperation with Montenegro’s National Security Agency. During the raids, law enforcement seized drones, sophisticated digital equipment, electronic devices, and mobile phones. In total, six individuals were detained.
Objectives and Impact of the Network’s Operations
This arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into hybrid activities tied to Kremlin-backed propaganda and information warfare. Montenegrin intelligence monitored the suspects for several days prior to the arrests. The detainees were reportedly in the country to produce a documentary aimed at portraying Montenegro’s visa policy reform in alignment with EU standards as a forced political agenda. This narrative was intended to undermine the country’s European integration by suggesting it could harm:
- tourism
- the economy
- national interests
Mikhail Zvinchuk is already subject to sanctions imposed by both the United Kingdom and the United States, which accuse him of involvement in Kremlin propaganda and malicious influence operations, including interference in U.S. elections. The Rybář network operates with partial coordination from the Russian Presidential Administration and receives funding from the state corporation Rostec. It also collaborates closely with Russian intelligence agencies. The network is known for deploying AI-generated pseudo-research to sway public opinion and promote Russian narratives.
In February 2026, OpenAI blocked the Rybář network for producing content used in information-psychological special operations. One of the network’s channels was involved in orchestrating disinformation campaigns related to politics in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Burundi, and Madagascar, aiming to incite protests. The Kremlin actively leverages propaganda platforms, including the Rybář Telegram channel, to advance its regional interests. A criminal investigation into the arrested individuals is ongoing, while the Rybář Telegram channel has yet to issue any statements on the matter.
The detention of Zvinchuk and his associates marks a significant milestone in Montenegro’s efforts to counter foreign interference and disinformation.
This case highlights the determination of Montenegrin security services to detect and neutralize Kremlin-linked propaganda threats that could destabilize the region and hinder the country’s European integration ambitions. Continued investigations may uncover further dimensions of Russian propaganda networks and their influence on political processes in Montenegro and neighboring states.