Bulgarian Woman Accused of Spying for Russia Denies Wrongdoing

Katrin Ivanova, a Bulgarian woman in the UK, faces charges related to a Russian spy operation but maintains her innocence, stating she believed her actions were journalistic in nature.

A Bulgarian woman, Katrin Ivanova, has taken the stand in a UK court to deny accusations of being involved in a Russian spy cell. The 33-year-old is accused of conducting surveillance for Moscow, including operations targeting a US military base in Germany and filming journalists critical of the Russian state. Ivanova asserts that she was unaware that her actions would contribute to espionage efforts.

While admitting to following individuals and traveling across Europe as part of the operations, she insisted she thought it was legitimate journalistic work aimed at exposing perceived corruption, specifically targeting investigative journalist Christo Grozev. "The plan was to try and expose Mr. Grozev," she testified. However, she noted that no actionable intelligence or publications came from these efforts.

Ivanova explained her participation stemmed from her long-term relationship with Biser Dzhambazov, who had asked her to assist with the surveillance. Claiming deep trust in Dzhambazov, who she has been with for over a decade, she questioned why he would engage in activities that could potentially harm her. The operations were reportedly also driven by a financial necessity connected to Dzhambazov’s friend, Orlin Roussev.

Both Dzhambazov and another defendant, Vanya Gaberova, have already pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to Russian intelligence work. Ivanova became emotional while recounting the moment she learned of Dzhambazov's arrest, which occurred while he was in bed with Gaberova. She recounted being informed that Dzhambazov had a brain tumor and traveled abroad for treatment, a claim she now believes was fabricated.

The trial, which continues, has prompted significant discussions regarding espionage activities within the UK and their implications.