First posted on Instagram · @profilopolitics
A senior member of the United States Army has been arrested in Britain on suspicion of spying for Russia, British counterterrorism police said on Tuesday.
The 41-year-old man, who has not been named, was arrested near Gloucester, in western England, on suspicion of offences under sections 1 and 3 of the National Security Act 2023 — obtaining or disclosing protected information, and assisting a foreign intelligence service. Police said the country to which the allegations relate is Russia.
The arrest was made by Counter Terrorism Policing London, working closely with American authorities, the U.S. military and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The man remains in custody at a police station in London, and officers are carrying out searches at two locations in Gloucestershire.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the arrest involves allegations of espionage. "This important arrest involves allegations of espionage, which is of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies," Patel said. He said the bureau has zero tolerance for anyone who betrays their oath and endangers national security.
Brigadier General Sean Stinchon, the commanding general of U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command, also commented on the arrest. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, of Counter Terrorism Policing, described the arrest as significant.
The investigation is being led by officers from Counter Terrorism Policing London, and inquiries continue. The soldier has not been charged, and no information has been made public about whether any information was actually passed to Russia.