Summary
Files leaked from Interpol show that Russia has been using the agency's wanted list to target critics living abroad, such as political opponents and journalists. The leaked data also reveals that more complaints have been made against Russia's use of Interpol than any other country. Measures introduced by Interpol to prevent such abuse after Russia's invasion of Ukraine do not appear to have been fully effective.
Key Facts
- Russia has allegedly placed critics on Interpol's wanted list to request arrests.
- A whistleblower leaked thousands of Interpol files showing this alleged misuse.
- Russia accounts for the most complaints to Interpol's complaints unit, over three times more than Turkey, the next highest country.
- Interpol implemented additional checks after Russia's invasion of Ukraine to prevent misuse.
- Leaked documents indicate some of these measures were abandoned in 2025.
- Interpol claims its current systems are strong and help arrest serious criminals globally.
- A red notice alerts 196 member countries to locate and arrest an individual.
- Russian businessman Igor Pestrikov fled to France and was named in a red diffusion, affecting his life significantly.
