Russia's state television channel RT and the news website Znak.com cited sources as saying that Valery Solovei, 61, and his son Pavel were detained on February 16 as part of an unspecified probe into the alleged inciting of hatred and discord.

The elder Solovei is known for analyses that are critical of the Russian government and President Vladimir Putin.

He worked as a teacher at the prestigious Moscow State Institute Of International Relations (MGIMO) until 2019. He left his job citing unspecified political reasons.