Three Ukrainian Nationals Arrested in Europe for Alleged Russia-Linked Sabotage Plot

Authorities say suspects are believed to be foreign agents working under Russian directives as tensions escalate over potential sabotage.

Three men from Ukraine have been arrested in Germany and Switzerland for allegedly scheming to execute acts of sabotage on behalf of Russia, according to the federal prosecutor’s office in Berlin. The arrests took place over the last five days and were part of an investigation into a plot that purportedly aimed to send incendiary and explosive devices via parcels to various locations in Ukraine.

While the suspects have not yet been formally charged, the investigation highlights concerns about a broader Russian initiative to undermine logistical frameworks within Europe. Prosecutors did not disclose specific details regarding potential targets but indicated that the sabotage would focus on disrupting commercial freight infrastructure.

Among the arrested was Vladyslav T., who, as per Germany's legal privacy protocols, is identified only by his first name. He had reportedly dispatched two sample packages from Cologne that contained GPS transponders designed to monitor the delivery route to Ukraine. Another suspect, Yevhen B., who was captured in Switzerland on Tuesday, allegedly helmed the operation and is set to be extradited to Germany. The third individual, Daniil B., reportedly played a role in supplying the GPS devices and other materials.

Authorities are treating these men as foreign operatives, suspecting them of being under the guidance of Russian governmental entities. This development comes in the wake of increasing intelligence community concerns surrounding Russian hybrid attacks targeting Germany.

Last year, an incident involving a package explosion at a DHL facility in Leipzig was attributed to a potential Russian military intelligence plot, supported by similar events in Birmingham and Warsaw. Additionally, Polish officials attributed a devastating fire that affected numerous businesses in Warsaw to Russian provocateurs.

The recent arrests have intensified scrutiny on Germany, which has faced several warnings about the escalating threat of Russian sabotage operations. In a speech delivered to lawmakers, Chancellor Friedrich Merz underscored the urgency of confronting espionage and disinformation campaigns believed to be orchestrated by the Russian government. As these incidents unfold, the geopolitical atmosphere in Europe remains fraught with tension amid an ongoing conflict.