MUNICH, Germany – Two individuals have been apprehended in Germany on suspicion of espionage for Russia and gathering intel on potential targets for attacks, including U.S. military installations, as announced by authorities on Thursday. The German Federal Prosecutor’s office indicated that these two German-Russian nationals, identified as Dieter S. and Alexander J. in accordance with privacy regulations, were collaborating with a Russian secret service operative to undermine international military backing for Ukraine.
Dieter S., believed to be a former fighter for pro-Kremlin factions in eastern Ukraine, is accused of plotting an explosive or arson strike in Germany. The arrests of these men took place in Bayreuth, a city in Bavaria, where their residences and workplaces were investigated by Bavarian state police. According to arrest warrants dated April 9, both individuals are suspected of working for a foreign secret service and partaking in activities for sabotage purposes and acquiring security-compromising information about military installations.
Accusations against Dieter S. include close communications with a person linked to the Russian secret service from October last year, discussing potential sabotage operations within Germany. The statement from the prosecutor’s office highlighted the aim to disrupt military aid from Germany to Ukraine against Russian aggression. Dieter S. reportedly gathered information on prospective targets, such as U.S. military compounds, with intentions to carry out explosion and arson attacks.
Authorities allege that Dieter S. conducted reconnaissance at multiple locations, capturing photos and videos that were shared with his Russian contact. Alexander J. is also implicated in assisting him from at least March this year. Dieter S. appeared in court on Wednesday and was remanded in custody pending trial, while Alexander J. is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
Moreover, a separate warrant issued on April 11 accuses Dieter S. of belonging to a foreign terrorist entity and preparing a serious violent act against the state. The warrant mentions strong suspicions of his involvement as a pro-Russian combatant in the ongoing conflict within Ukraine. Ukraine has long cautioned about the presence of Russian spies in Europe, particularly in Germany, attempting to obstruct its defense against Russia’s invasion.
German authorities previously condemned Russia’s “information war” after Russian media published a private conversation among senior German military officials discussing support for Ukraine. Germany faces a significant debate over its weapon supply to Ukraine, being the second-largest provider after the United States, with concerns on potentially doing more. In response to these arrests, Justice Minister Marco Buschmann emphasized the need for a defensive and resolute reaction against the menacing actions from the Russian regime. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser labeled this suspected spy activity as a grave case for Putin’s criminal regime.
When questioned about the arrests, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated he lacked information to provide any comments. The case underscores heightened tensions between Germany and Russia, with implications on international security measures. The situation calls for continued vigilance and preparedness from German authorities in thwarting espionage activities that could jeopardize national security.