Greece’s Supreme Court Approves Extradition of Crypto Figure Alexander Vinnik to France

Vinnik’s Journey from Crypto Kingpin to Extradition

In the world of cryptocurrency, few names ring as loud as that of Alexander Vinnik, infamously known as “Mr. Bitcoin.” On December 19, news broke that Greece’s Supreme Court has thrown its weight behind the decision to extradite Vinnik to France, a significant milestone in the legal saga that has ensnared him since his arrest back in 2017.

The Accusations: A Crypto Conspiracy

Vinnik, a 39-year-old Russian national, stands accused of orchestrating a staggering $4 billion money laundering operation through the now-defunct BTC-e exchange, which has since faded into the annals of criminal cryptocurrency history. His issues began when U.S. authorities indicted him on charges of fraud, prompting his apprehension in a sun-drenched Greek locale.

Extradition Tug-of-War

Vinnik’s case has become a hotbed for international drama as both France and Russia vie for his extradition. After a Thessaloniki court backed transferring him to France, Vinnik did what any self-respecting alleged crypto mastermind would do: he appealed the decision. Talk about taking “the high road!”

Hunger Strike: A Cry for Justice or a Strategy?

To spice things up, Vinnik has been flexing his hunger strike muscles, claiming he’s been fasting for an astonishing 24 days. According to him, he has shed a weighty 9 kg during his protest against what he calls the “arbitrariness” of Greek judges. Perhaps he’s trying to send a message: “I won’t eat until I get to Russia!” Talk about not being able to swallow the justice system!

The U.S. Angle: Big Penalties Await

But let’s not forget the looming specter of U.S. interest. Following BTC-e’s notorious closure, the U.S. is chasing down Vinnik for a hefty $12 million in alleged fines stemming from AML violations. The drama thickens, as his legal team fears that a one-way ticket to France could lead straight to extradition to the States. At least he could start investing in a good lawyer!

The Greek Judicial Saga Continues

With the Greek Ministry of Justice now poised to untangle this legal spaghetti, the stakes are high. Russia’s response has been equally theatrical, with their Ministry of Foreign Affairs suggesting that Greece is “complicating relations” by not prioritizing their extradition request. Hold tight; the plot thickens!