Kathrine Frich
A court case unfolding in Munich has revealed how far the Kremlin’s shadow may reach.
Three men accused of espionage insist they are innocent, claiming their alleged sabotage plans were nothing more than jokes.
Prosecutors, however, say the evidence shows a dangerous loyalty to Russia and “a deep, consuming hatred of Ukraine.”
The alleged sabotage plot
According to the German Federal Prosecutor’s Office, the three defendants planned attacks on military infrastructure and railway lines across Germany.
These alleged acts of sabotage were said to be part of a broader effort to undermine support for Ukraine and destabilize European security.
The prosecution has demanded eight years and eight months in prison for the main suspect, while the two other men could face suspended one-year sentences.
The case is being heard before the Higher Regional Court in Munich.
A past in eastern Ukraine
The lead defendant, a dual German-Russian national, is accused of having fought in eastern Ukraine between 2014 and 2016 as part of an armed terrorist group.
Prosecutors say his goal was to help separate the Donetsk region from Ukraine through violent means.
The man denies the charge. He told the court that he had traveled to the region only because of a romantic relationship and claimed he had never taken part in any fighting.
“I just bragged to impress women,” he said.
Prosecutors see close ties to Moscow
The Federal Prosecutor’s Office rejected that version of events, arguing that his alleged “deep hatred of Ukraine” proved otherwise.
According to investigators, his communications and travel patterns reveal a strong connection to Russian intelligence circles.
The two co-defendants are accused of knowingly joining the plan, helping to identify targets and discuss potential arson attacks.
All three men deny working for Moscow, insisting their conversations about sabotage were made “ironically.”
The defense is expected to deliver its closing arguments next week, after which the Munich court will decide the trio’s fate.
This article is made and published by Kathrine Frich, which may have used AI in the preparation
