A man from the UK has been apprehended in Ukraine on allegations of spying for Russia and planning acts of terrorism. According to Kyiv prosecutors, the individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, provided sensitive information to Russian intelligence while serving as a military instructor. The accusations include gathering intelligence on Odesa facilities, attempting to access military units, and discussing the use of explosive devices for which he was reportedly compensated £5,148.
Ukraine’s security service, the SBU, stated that the detained man was preparing for terrorist activities. They mentioned that he received instructions from Russian operatives on making an improvised explosive device and was provided with the location of a weapons stash from which he allegedly took a pistol and two loaded magazines.
The individual arrived in Ukraine in January 2024 and conducted training sessions for military personnel in Mykolaiv before moving to Odesa in September. Prosecutors claim he engaged with a representative of the Russian special service in Odesa and agreed to sell military information. Prosecutors also presented evidence indicating that he shared the locations of Ukrainian units, images of training sites, and personal details of military personnel in May. Additionally, the SBU noted his proficiency in fire and tactical training and his recruitment efforts within pro-Kremlin online communities.
The man was detained at his temporary residence in Kyiv and has been held without bail pending a pre-trial investigation. Ukrainian security services suggested that he could face a maximum of 12 years in prison. The UK Foreign Office confirmed awareness of the situation and stated that they are closely collaborating with Ukrainian authorities.
This incident marks the first known case 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 foreign intelligence service, as announced by the Metropolitan Police. Commander Dominic Murphy of Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized the ongoing efforts to disrupt such activities, warning of severe consequences for individuals involved in criminal acts on behalf of foreign states within the UK.