US soldier detained in England on suspicion of spying for Russia

British police arrested a senior United States military member near Gloucester on suspicion of espionage for Russia, according to a statement from London Metropolitan Police. The 41-year-old soldier is being held under Section 1 and Section 3 of the National Security Act 2023, which cover the unlawful obtaining or disclosure of protected information and assisting a foreign intelligence service.

The arrest follows a joint investigation by UK and US counter-terrorism authorities. Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national coordinator for Britain’s Counter Terrorism Policing, said the case resulted from “close collaboration between UK and US authorities” and praised the partnership’s strength.

“The allegations are serious and our investigation is very much ongoing. This activity demonstrates the strength of our UK and US law enforcement and national security partnerships, and I commend the work of all the teams involved,” Evans said.

The suspect was based at Imjin Barracks in Innsworth, Gloucestershire, a site that hosts NATO’s Allied Rapid Reaction Corps. He remains in custody for up to 14 days without charge while the investigation continues.

FBI Director Kash Patel described the allegations as “of the utmost concern” to the United States and its allies, emphasizing the FBI’s zero-tolerance stance toward breaches of oath and national-security risks.

“While this investigation is continuing, I want to send a clear message – this FBI has no tolerance for anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and whose actions endanger our national security and that of our partners,” Patel said.

Brigadier General Sean Stinchon, commanding general of the US Army Counterintelligence Command, highlighted the case as a reminder of persistent insider threats and thanked UK and FBI officials for their cooperation.

“I am grateful to the UK and the FBI for their professionalism and teamwork throughout this investigation. The alleged conduct of a senior soldier, entrusted with sensitive information, is a sobering reminder that insider threats are real and persistent,” Stinchon said.

The Metropolitan Police noted that the investigation is not linked to any other ongoing counter-terrorism probes. This appears to be the first instance of a US soldier suspected of spying for a foreign government while stationed in the United Kingdom, although recent months have seen several arrests related to Russian intelligence activities in Britain.