The British police and intelligence agencies are currently investigating three arson cases involving multiple assets of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to determine if they are connected to Russian forces. Despite no definitive conclusions yet, the UK counter-terrorism police emphasize maintaining an open mind towards the case and have not ruled out any possibilities.
These three incidents all occurred in early May and involved fires at a family rental property in Kentish Town in North London, a car, and a property that Starmer previously owned. The cases have drawn high levels of attention from the political and security sectors.
Currently, two Ukrainian men and one Romanian man are charged with “conspiring to commit arson and endanger life.” The police indicate that these three suspects are believed to have collaborated with others who have not yet been identified. The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to appear in court again on June 6.
Prosecutor Sarah Przybylska, in charge of the case, stated in court that the motive behind the incidents is “not yet clear.” Although the investigation is led by the Metropolitan Police’s counter-terrorism unit, the three defendants are currently facing charges only related to general criminal offenses and not national security charges.
According to the Financial Times citing government sources, authorities are assessing whether the three suspects might have been recruited by Russian intelligence agencies or their agents. If Russian involvement is confirmed, the UK government will consider further measures in response.
It is worth noting that the three suspects do not have an apparent pro-Russian stance, with one showing support for Ukraine on social media, adding further uncertainty to the motive behind the incidents.
While there is no direct evidence linking these arson cases to the Kremlin, British officials emphasize that any potential transnational plots will be closely monitored and handled rigorously.
Starmer himself expressed shock over the events, stating that these attacks are not just against him personally but “against everyone, democracy, and the values we hold dear,” pledging full cooperation with the investigation and support for law enforcement actions.
Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and escalating Western sanctions, Russia has been accused of intensifying subversive activities in multiple European countries, including arson, assassinations, and infrastructure sabotage. Richard Moore, the head of MI6, warned last year that Russian intelligence agencies are conducting “shockingly reckless destructive actions” in Europe.
Currently, both the British government and police are maintaining a low profile regarding the progress of the investigation, while Russia has not issued any official response to the case.