US Army Soldier Arrested in UK for Alleged Spying for Russia

British counter-terrorism police arrested a 41-year-old U.S. Army soldier on the 10th near Gloucester, England, on suspicion of espionage for Russia.

The soldier, who was stationed at the Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire, faces allegations related to the acquisition and disclosure of protected information under the UK’s 2023 National Security Act.

The Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command confirmed the arrest of the senior soldier under Section 1 and Section 3 of the 2023 National Security Act. Section 1 covers the obtaining or disclosure of protected information, while Section 3 relates to assisting a foreign intelligence service. The suspect remains in custody at a London police station, where authorities can detain him for up to 14 days without charge under the specific provisions of the legislation.

Investigators are currently searching two locations in Gloucestershire as part of the ongoing inquiry. Counter-terrorism officials said that this investigation is not connected to other active cases.

The soldier was stationed at the Imjin Barracks in Innsworth, a site that houses the headquarters of the NATO Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC). This facility serves as a strategic operational hub for the alliance.

“This significant arrest involves allegations of espionage and is a matter of grave concern for the United States and our allies,” FBI Director Kash Patel said in a statement.

“While this investigation is ongoing, I want to send a clear message: the FBI will not tolerate anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and engages in conduct that puts the national security of the United States and our allies at risk.”

Military leadership said the alleged breach shows that internal actors within the armed forces pose a persistent danger.

“The alleged actions of a senior soldier entrusted with classified information are a reminder that the insider threat is real and persistent,” said Brigadier Sean Stinchon, commander of the U.S. Army Counterintelligence Command. “If you see something suspicious, please report it to your nearest counterintelligence office.”

Vicky Evans, Deputy Assistant Commissioner for UK Counter Terrorism Policing, said the arrest changes the case. She confirmed that the investigation remains active and that the allegations are serious.

The soldier, whose identity has not been released, is currently being held at a London police station.