A British military veteran who had been training Ukrainian fighters in Ukraine has been apprehended on suspicion of espionage for Russia, as per reports by intelligence sources in Kyiv. The individual, detained in October with the assistance of British secret services, is under investigation for allegedly sharing unauthorized information with Russia. If convicted, he could face a prison sentence of up to 12 years.
According to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the British man was allegedly provided with firearms and ammunition by Russian special services to carry out targeted killings in Ukraine. The SBU confirmed that the man is currently in custody, with the investigation ongoing.
Reports from Ukrainian Pravda state that the SBU, in collaboration with British intelligence, uncovered the British citizen’s involvement in espionage activities on behalf of the Russian spy agency. Allegations suggest that he was enticed by the prospect of easy money and passed confidential military information, including the locations of training centers and details about foreign instructors working with the Ukrainian armed forces, to the Russian authorities.
The detainee is also accused of receiving instructions on constructing explosive devices and being directed to acquire a pistol with loaded magazines. The British Foreign Office has acknowledged the situation, stating that consular assistance is being provided to the detained British national in Ukraine, with close communication maintained with Ukrainian officials.
The incident occurs amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now entering its fourth year. US special envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to present a potential peace initiative to Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Concurrently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is engaging in diplomatic visits to European allies supporting Ukraine’s defense efforts against Russia’s incursion.
In an effort to advance peace negotiations, US President Donald Trump’s administration is intensifying diplomatic efforts, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaging with Ukrainian officials and Witkoff’s upcoming meeting in Moscow. These developments mark key diplomatic maneuvers amidst the prolonged conflict in the region.