Russia linked to arson attacks on properties connected to UK PM Keir Starmer, police say
Russia allegedly linked to arson attacks on U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's properties, with a reported diplomat accused of recruiting Ukrainian nationals.
TL;DR
- Suspects in arson attacks targeting properties linked to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer were allegedly recruited and directed by a Russian-speaking handler.
- The handler is believed to be a diplomat involved in Russian sabotage and disinformation operations.
- Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych and Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc were convicted; a third defendant, Petro Pochynok, was acquitted.
- The attacks included a vehicle fire and fires at two properties owned or managed by Starmer, occurring over five days in May 2025.
- Lavrynovych was recruited via Telegram by a handler named "El Money," who allegedly promised payment and Russian citizenship.
- Evidence suggests the handler was trained in information warfare and supported Russian President Vladimir Putin.
- Russian operatives allegedly coordinated the campaign remotely through social media and Telegram, using fake online communities.
- The Russian Embassy has denied any involvement.
- Lavrynovych was arrested after CCTV and phone records linked him to reconnaissance, while Carpiuc was arrested at Luton Airport.
- Commander Helen Flanagan stated the actions were reckless and that it was "sheer luck that nobody was killed or injured."