Bayreuth, Germany – Two individuals suspected of espionage activities aimed at undermining German military aid for Ukraine have been arrested in Bavaria, prosecutors announced. The suspects, who hold dual German-Russian citizenship, were detained in Bayreuth on suspicion of spying for Russia, with allegations including scouting potential targets such as US military facilities in Germany.

The main suspect, identified as Dieter S, is accused of a range of offenses, including planning an explosion, arson, and maintaining contact with Russian intelligence. He is also alleged to have fought for a Russian proxy armed force in eastern Ukraine between 2014 and 2016. The second suspect, Alexander J, is said to have assisted Dieter S in identifying potential targets for attack.

According to prosecutors, there were discussions between Dieter S and his Russian contact regarding possible sabotage operations in Germany, with a focus on undermining the country’s support for Ukraine. The suspects are accused of preparing explosive and arson attacks, particularly on military and industrial infrastructure. In addition, they reportedly scouted US military facilities in Germany, gathering information and passing it on to their Russian contact.

German officials have been vocal about the significance of these arrests in combating espionage and sabotage efforts linked to Russian networks. Justice Minister Marco Buschmann described the arrests as a significant investigative success in the fight against such activities. Vice-Chancellor Robert Habeck, currently in Kyiv, emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine in its struggle for freedom during these challenging times.

In response to the escalating conflict in Ukraine, the German government is leading efforts to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses. Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called on EU countries to provide additional air defense systems, specifically mentioning Patriot systems. Germany has already sent two Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine and has pledged a third system.

The arrests in Bavaria are part of a series of high-profile espionage cases in Germany. Last summer, a German national working for the military procurement agency was apprehended on suspicion of sharing information with Russian diplomats in Bonn and Berlin. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges posed by foreign espionage activities and the need for vigilance in protecting national security.