Russia seeks mathematician’s extradition
Russian mathematician Mikhail Verbitsky was detained by Armenian authorities after Russia requested his extradition to face terrorism-related charges stemming from his criticism of the 2022 Ukraine invasion. Armenian officials temporarily released Verbitsky following pressure from the global math community, including the French Mathematical Society, which urged refusal of Russia’s extradition request.
Russian mathematician Mikhail Verbitsky was arrested by Armenian authorities last week during a visit to attend a high school graduation. Russia has demanded his extradition to face charges of inciting terrorism, citing his public criticism of the country’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Verbitsky, a professor at Brazil’s Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics since 2017, is known for his work in complex geometry and his outspoken political blogging. The math community reacted swiftly, with top mathematicians signing petitions for Verbitsky’s release. The French Mathematical Society issued a statement calling on Armenia to reject Russia’s extradition request. Armenian authorities reportedly released Verbitsky temporarily, though no official confirmation has been provided. Verbitsky’s arrest follows a broader trend of mathematicians distancing themselves from Russia since the Ukraine invasion. In 2022, organizers canceled plans to hold the discipline’s largest conference in Saint Petersburg due to the conflict. His case highlights the intersection of academic freedom, political dissent, and international diplomacy.
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