A man from the UK has been arrested in Ukraine on suspicion of spying for Russia and planning acts of terrorism. According to Kyiv prosecutors, the individual, who remains unnamed, allegedly provided sensitive information to Russian intelligence while serving as a military instructor. His activities reportedly included gathering intelligence on facilities in Odesa, attempting to access military units, and discussing the use of explosive devices. Prosecutors claim he was compensated £5,148 for one particular task.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) stated that the man was also involved in preparations for terrorist attacks. They disclosed that he received instructions from Russian agents on constructing an improvised explosive device and was directed to a weapons cache, from which he allegedly took a pistol and two loaded magazines.
The accused arrived in Ukraine in January 2024 and conducted training sessions for military personnel in Mykolaiv before relocating to Odesa in September. Prosecutors allege that he established contact with a representative of the Russian special service in Odesa and agreed to sell military information.
Prosecutors presented evidence indicating that the man shared the locations of Ukrainian units, images of training areas, and personal details of military personnel in May. The SBU highlighted his expertise in fire and tactical training, noting that he actively promoted his willingness to engage in espionage on pro-Kremlin online platforms.
The individual was apprehended at his temporary residence in Kyiv, where he is currently being held without bail pending a pre-trial investigation. Ukrainian security services have indicated that he may face a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison. The UK Foreign Office confirmed awareness of the situation and stated that they are closely coordinating with Ukrainian authorities.
This incident marks the first known case of a British citizen facing espionage charges in Ukraine. In a separate development, three men aged 44, 45, and 48 were recently arrested in London on suspicion of assisting Russia’s foreign intelligence service. The Metropolitan Police reported that the individuals are being held under the National Security Act as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt such activities. Commander Dominic Murphy of Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized the serious consequences for individuals involved in criminal activities on behalf of foreign states within the UK.