Russia accused of arson sabotage in attacks on Keir Starmer's property

Two Ukrainians and a Romanian citizen have already been charged with conspiracy to commit arson and create a danger to life related to the fires. However, police say the three conspired with "others unknown."

Senior Whitehall officials stated that British authorities are probing whether Russian operatives recruited the three accused arsonists. Anonymous sources said that response options are being discussed if these claims prove true.

Prosecutor Sarah Przybylska told the court that the alleged conspiracy is currently "unexplained."

The publication notes that over the past 18 months, Russia has intensified a campaign of sabotage and violence across Europe. This comes as Moscow's war against Ukraine continues and Western countries increase sanctions on the Russian economy.

According to the Financial Times, even if British officials conclude Russia was involved in the arson, that would not necessarily mean the Kremlin ordered the attacks or that the suspects knew of any Russian connection.

Arson attacks on Starmer's homes in London

On May 12, a fire broke out at the London residence of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Police reported at the time that no one was injured in the incident.

Later, it became clear that the fire had damaged the building's entrance. Notably, four days earlier, a car had been set on fire on the same street. That incident was also linked to the British government leader.

The next day, May 13, police detained a 21-year-old man suspected of throwing a Molotov cocktail at the building. A second man was later charged.

On May 21, a third man — also a Ukrainian — was charged in connection with the arson of the property and the car linked to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.