France Denies Access to Some Russian Journalists at Olympic Games

France has denied access to some Russian journalists for the upcoming Olympic Games, citing concerns over espionage. French authorities have rejected several requests from Russian journalists to cover the Paris Olympics. No names have been disclosed.

As explained by Gérald Darmanin, the head of France's Ministry of the Interior, the authorities are wary of potential espionage and cyber-attacks. In total, law enforcement agencies have reviewed 960,000 dossiers related to employment for the Olympic Games. Overall, 4,300 individuals—comprising volunteers, stadium workers, and representatives from sports delegations—have been denied access.

Approximately 100 others have been denied permission due to suspicions of espionage, particularly from Russia, Belarus, and several other countries, details that Darmanin declined to elaborate on.

It is worth noting that the Olympic Games are set to begin in Paris on July 26 and conclude on August 11. The International Olympic Committee has allowed 15 Russian and 17 Belarusian athletes to participate in the games under a neutral status.