Australia charges dual citizen accused of spying for Russia in Ukraine

Australian authorities have charged a 27-year-old Russian-Australian dual citizen with foreign interference for allegedly attempting to pass on intelligence about Ukrainian military activities to Russia, according to police. The man underwent "military-style" training in Russia before joining the Ukrainian armed forces in 2024. After returning to Australia, he allegedly maintained contact with individuals linked to Moscow's intelligence services.

In 2025, he traveled to Ukraine and enlisted in the Ukrainian military, reportedly gaining access to sensitive information about their military personnel, units, and locations. He allegedly provided or attempted to provide this information to individuals he believed were acting on behalf of Russian intelligence services. Police allege that this conduct posed a risk to the safety and security of Ukrainian military personnel.

A number of search warrants have been executed, and further arrests are a possibility, police said. The man was scheduled to face charges at a court hearing in Brisbane on Friday, but has not yet been identified. He was unemployed, according to police. The investigation involved federal police and the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO).

Police and ASIO chief Claire McGuinness emphasized that Australia has zero tolerance for foreign interference. Ukraine's ambassador to Australia described the case as "deeply concerning" and highlighted the ongoing threat from Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Russia's embassy in Canberra stated they had learned of the case through media reports and were investigating the circumstances.

This marks the eighth such charging in Australia, with a maximum penalty of 20 years' imprisonment for the crime of intentional foreign interference.