German authorities have arrested two individuals, Dieter S. and Alexander J., both German-Russian nationals, on suspicions of espionage and planning sabotage attacks against U.S. military facilities in Germany. The Federal Prosecutor’s Office announced that these arrests are part of an investigation into activities aimed at undermining international military support for Ukraine amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.
The investigation revealed that Dieter S. had allegedly been in contact with a Russian secret service agent since October 2023, discussing potential sabotage operations within Germany. These discussions reportedly included plans for explosive and arson attacks targeting infrastructure used for military purposes, particularly facilities instrumental in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Both suspects were apprehended in Bayreuth, Bavaria, and are facing charges of working for a foreign secret service and engaging in activities threatening state security. The specific charges against Dieter S. include preparing for acts of violence that pose a serious danger to the state and membership in a foreign terrorist organization, reflecting his past involvement with pro-Russian forces in Eastern Ukraine.
The German Foreign Ministry reacted to these developments by summoning the Russian ambassador to Berlin while other German officials, including the interior minister and justice minister, have publicly condemned the espionage activities.
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