Former Russian military intelligence officer; double agent
British authorities report a surge in proxy-style arson and sabotage linked to foreign-state tactics. Suspects are lured via social media for money; Iran, Russia, and others are cited as potential sources. Legislation aims to curb such proxies, with penalties up to 14 years in prison.
The UK has sanctioned Russian individuals and institutes over chemical weapon usage and a Russian Bear-F aircraft has been intercepted near HMS Prince of Wales in the Norwegian Sea amid NATO operations. The incident comes as Britain stresses safety and prods Russia over its conduct at sea and in airspace.
EU and UK sanctions have broadened to seven individuals and two institutes in response to the use of chemical agents, including Novichok and epibatidine, in Salisbury and against Alexei Navalny. Foreign officials condemn Russia’s actions as a violation of international law and vow accountability.