3 Are Arrested in Russia-Linked Sabotage Plot, Germany Says
In a significant development, German authorities have arrested three Ukrainian nationals on suspicion of plotting sabotage activities linked to Russian operatives. The men were detained in Germany and Switzerland, with charges alleging their involvement in planning explosive attacks targeting commercial freight infrastructure.
The suspects—Vladyslav T., Daniil B., and Yevhen B.—are accused of conspiring to send parcels containing explosive or incendiary devices from Germany to Ukraine. These packages were intended to detonate during transport, potentially causing significant damage and disruption. The arrests took place in Cologne, Konstanz, and the Swiss canton of Thurgau, where one of the individuals is currently awaiting deportation to Germany.
According to German federal prosecutors, the men had agreed to carry out attacks on freight transport in Germany, with the dangerous parcels en route to Ukraine. In late March, Vladyslav T. allegedly sent two “test packages” with GPS trackers from Cologne, under Yevhen B.’s direction and with aid from Daniil B. Authorities stated that these test shipments likely did not contain explosives or fuel. The scheme aligns with other incidents across Europe where Russia has been accused of destabilizing activities, including previous sabotage attempts involving incendiary packages. German Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig emphasized Russia’s continued efforts to undermine Western democracies through such acts. (apnews.com)
This case is part of a broader pattern of alleged Russian hybrid warfare tactics aimed at destabilizing European nations. Similar incidents have occurred in Lithuania and Poland, where arson attacks have been linked to Russian intelligence operations. German officials have heightened warnings about Russian espionage and destabilization efforts since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Chancellor Friedrich Merz strongly attributed these undertakings to the Russian government and its accomplices, stating, “This is overwhelmingly the work of the Russian leadership and its accomplices. Even here in our own country.” (ft.com)
The German government has responded by increasing security measures and vigilance against such threats. The arrests underscore the ongoing challenges posed by foreign interference and the importance of international cooperation in addressing these security concerns.
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