A man from the UK has been apprehended in Ukraine under suspicions of engaging in espionage for Russia and planning acts of terrorism.
According to Kyiv prosecutors, the individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, allegedly provided sensitive information to Russian intelligence while serving as a military instructor. He reportedly gathered intelligence on Odesa facilities, made attempts to access military units, and discussed the potential use of explosive devices. Prosecutors claim he received £5,148 for one of his tasks.
Ukraine’s security service, the SBU, stated that the man was actively preparing to carry out terrorist activities. The SBU asserted that Russian operatives had instructed him on constructing an improvised explosive device and disclosed the location of a weapons cache, from which he purportedly acquired a pistol and two loaded magazines.
The man arrived in Ukraine in January 2024 and conducted training sessions for military personnel in Mykolaiv before relocating to Odesa in September. Prosecutors allege that during his time in Odesa, he maintained contact with a Russian special service representative and agreed to sell military-related information.
Evidence indicates that in May, he shared the whereabouts of Ukrainian military units, photos of training areas, and personal information of military staff, as per prosecutors. Additionally, the SBU mentioned his proficiency in fire and tactical training, noting his recruitment efforts in pro-Kremlin online communities.
The suspect was detained at his temporary residence in Kyiv and subsequently appeared in court, where he was remanded in custody without bail pending further investigation. Ukrainian authorities have suggested that he could potentially face up to 12 years in prison.
The UK Foreign Office acknowledged the situation and affirmed ongoing communication with Ukrainian officials.
This incident marks the first publicized instance of a British citizen facing espionage charges in Ukraine. Concurrently, three men aged 44, 45, and 48 were recently arrested in London on suspicion of aiding Russia’s intelligence service, as reported by the Metropolitan Police. Commander Dominic Murphy of Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized the growing recruitment of “proxies” by foreign intelligence agencies and reiterated the consequences awaiting individuals involved in such illicit activities.
