Gryaznov, head chef at a renowned restaurant, is alleged to be a Russian intelligence collaborator and faces up to 30 years in prison.
According to French intelligence, the planned provocation by Gryaznov was intended to have "serious consequences" for the Olympics, Russian independent portal Insider reported.
Journalists from Insider, French newspaper Le Monde, and German daily Der Spiegel conducted a joint investigation revealing Gryaznov’s ties to Russia's FSB and GRU intelligence agencies.
Gryaznov, 40, has been charged with espionage and is currently in temporary detention awaiting trial. French authorities reportedly found diplomatic materials and a special services unit ID during his arrest on July 19.
However, Insider cast doubt on his affiliation with the FSB's elite ‘Vympel’ unit, citing his background as a barrier.
Further details of the operation are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
(jh)
Source: Polskie Radio, Insider