German Authorities Detain Three Suspects in Ongoing Inquiry Into Pro‑Russian Activities

German federal prosecutors have arrested three individuals in Berlin and the state of Brandenburg as part of coordinated investigations into suspected support for pro‑Russian entities and alleged intelligence activities.

German authorities reported that two men were detained in Brandenburg on suspicion of aiding the self‑proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk “People’s Republics,” which Germany classifies as foreign terrorist organizations. Prosecutors allege the men—identified under German privacy laws as Suren A. and Falko H.—helped transfer funds, coordinate deliveries of supplies, and facilitate the distribution of equipment, including drones, to separatist groups operating in eastern Ukraine.

In a separate case, a German‑Ukrainian woman was arrested in Berlin on suspicion of passing sensitive information to a Russian embassy official. Prosecutors say the suspect, identified as Ilona W., allegedly gathered details on political events, arms‑related sites, and drone testing activities, and maintained contact with Russian intelligence representatives since at least late 2023. Her residence, along with properties linked to additional suspects, was searched as part of the investigation.

Authorities stated that all three suspects are expected to appear before the Federal Court of Justice, where judges will determine whether they will remain in custody pending further proceedings. The arrests form part of Germany’s broader efforts to counter foreign influence operations and illicit support networks connected to the conflict in Ukraine.

The Donetsk and Luhansk regions have been at the center of geopolitical tension since 2014, when pro‑Russian separatists, backed by Moscow, seized control of key territories following Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Russia later recognized the self‑proclaimed republics shortly before launching its full‑scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Western governments and Ukraine have rejected Russia’s justification for intervention as unfounded.

German officials have emphasized that the latest arrests reflect ongoing concerns about espionage, foreign interference, and the flow of resources to armed groups involved in the conflict. The investigations are expected to continue as authorities examine the extent of the suspects’ alleged activities and any potential links to broader networks.