Britons accused of helping Russia after alleged arson attack on Ukraine-linked company – POLITICO

The PSC designated the foreign state as Russia.

Reeves, meanwhile, faces charges of agreeing to “accept a material benefit from a foreign intelligence service,” as well as arson.

Three other defendants – Nii Mensah, Dmitrijus Paulauska and Paul English – all face charges of arson but not espionage, while Paulauska is accused of having “information about terrorist acts”.

Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Friday lifted reporting restrictions on the men’s identities. They will then appear at the Old Bailey on a date to be confirmed.

Dominic Murphy, head of the Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism command, said in a separate statement that the decision to charge the men was “extremely serious” and marked the first time a person had been arrested and charged under British law on national security, entry into force. last year and specifically targeted foreign surveillance.

British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said Friday: “While we must allow the legal process to take its course, I am deeply concerned by allegations that British nationals are carrying out criminal activity on British soil for the benefit of the Russian state.

“We will use the full weight of the criminal justice system to hold accountable anyone convicted of crimes related to foreign interference. »