German authorities have charged three Russian-German nationals with espionage and sabotage activities aimed at undermining Germany’s military support for Ukraine.
The Federal Prosecutor’s Office filed charges against Dieter S., Alexander J., and Alex D. on December 9, 2024, before the State Security Senate of the Munich Higher Regional Court.
Dieter S., the primary suspect, is a 40-year-old former member of a pro-Russian militia in Ukraine, specifically the so-called “Donetsk People’s Republic” (DPR), which Germany considers a terrorist organization. He was previously charged in October 2024 for his involvement with this group.
From October 2023, Dieter S. discussed potential sabotage actions within Germany with a Russian intelligence operative. These actions were intended to disrupt Germany’s military aid to Ukraine, including plans for explosive and arson attacks on military infrastructure and industrial sites, as well as sabotage against railway lines used for military transport.
The trio allegedly scouted potential targets in Bavaria, including the U.S. military training ground in Grafenwöhr, where Ukrainian soldiers are trained, and a tool manufacturing plant near Bayreuth that produces weapons. Dieter S. is accused of taking photographs and videos of these locations, which were then passed on to Russian intelligence.
Espionage and Sabotage Activities
Dieter S. and Alexander J. were arrested in April 2024 following an investigation by German security services. Dieter S. has remained in custody since his arrest, while the arrest warrant against Alexander J. was later suspended without explanation. Alex D. remains at large.
The arrests led to a diplomatic incident between Moscow and Berlin, with Germany summoning the Russian ambassador. Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of countering Russian espionage threats, stating, “We can never accept that such espionage activities take place in Germany.”
This case highlights the ongoing concerns about Russian hybrid warfare and sabotage operations against NATO countries, particularly those supporting Ukraine.
The charges against these individuals underscore the complex security challenges faced by Germany and its allies in the context of the broader geopolitical tensions with Russia.
The German authorities’ swift action in this case reflects their commitment to safeguarding national security and supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.
Investigate Real-World Malicious Links, Malware & Phishing Attacks With ANY.RUN – Try for Free