2 Arrested in Germany for alleged plot targeting US facilities

German-Russian Duo Nabbed in Sabotage Plot Targeting U.S. Military Bases

Authorities in Germany have apprehended two individuals with dual German-Russian citizenship on suspicions of orchestrating sabotage attacks, including targeting U.S. military installations. The arrests, announced on Thursday, come amidst mounting concerns over efforts to undermine international support for Ukraine's defense against Russian aggression.

The suspects, whose identities have not been fully disclosed in accordance with German privacy laws, are believed to have connections to a foreign secret service. One of the accused, identified as Dieter S., allegedly engaged in discussions regarding potential attacks with an individual linked to the Russian secret service since October 2023, according to prosecutors.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser hailed the preventive actions of security authorities, emphasizing the seriousness of the alleged espionage activities aimed at sabotaging military assistance to Ukraine. Dieter S. purportedly planned explosive and arson attacks on military facilities, including those housing U.S. troops, and gathered intelligence through surveillance of military transport and equipment.

Among the targeted sites mentioned in reports is the Grafenwoehr army base in Bavaria, where Ukrainian forces receive training on U.S.-supplied equipment like Abrams tanks. While the Kremlin denied knowledge of the arrests, the Russian embassy in Berlin stated it had not received official notification. The U.S. embassy has yet to comment on the developments.

Prosecutors suspect Dieter S. of serving as a combatant for Russian-backed factions in eastern Ukraine from 2014 to 2016, with firearms found in his possession. This arrest follows a separate case last month involving a German military procurement officer charged with espionage for Russian intelligence.

The timing of these arrests coincides with an unexpected visit by German Economy Minister Robert Habeck to Ukraine and a renewed call from Germany for international assistance to bolster Ukraine's air defenses amidst ongoing Russian assaults on Ukrainian territories.

Faeser reiterated Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine and its refusal to succumb to intimidation tactics.