A senior officer in the United States Army has been arrested on charges of espionage, suspected of spying for Russia, according to British counter-terrorism authorities. The 41-year-old serviceman was apprehended near Gloucester on Tuesday under sections one and three of the National Security Act 2023. These sections pertain to the obtaining or disclosing of protected information and assisting a foreign intelligence service, respectively.
The arrest took place in Gloucestershire, where the soldier was reportedly stationed at Imjin Barracks, which serves as the headquarters for NATO's Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC), a strategic operational base for the alliance. Counter Terrorism Policing London emphasized that the arrest is unrelated to any other ongoing investigations.
FBI Director Kash Patel issued a statement, expressing concern over the allegations of espionage and stating that such actions are of great concern to the United States and its allies. He further emphasized that there is no tolerance for individuals who break their oath to the US and endanger national security, echoing a similar sentiment from Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans of Counter Terrorism Policing London.
The suspect remains in custody at a London police station, held under the National Security Act 2023, which allows for detention without charge for up to 14 days. The US Army's Commanding General of Counterintelligence Command, Brig Gen Sean Stinchon, underscored the gravity of the alleged actions and encouraged anyone who suspects suspicious behavior to report it to their local counterintelligence office.
Additional reporting was provided by Daniel Sandford, UK correspondent. The soldier's identity has not been disclosed at this time.