Germany arrests Ukrainian man accused of spying for Russia

What happened: German authorities arrested a Ukrainian national, identified as Vadym Y, in Brandenburg on suspicion of spying for Russia. Prosecutors said he had been in contact with the Russian secret service via an intermediary since at least July 2025. Key numbers: Why it matters: Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was "not surprised" by the news. The arrest follows German accusations that Russia is waging a "shadow war" of drone attacks and sabotage, and BND chief Martin Jaeger told lawmakers Germany risks being drawn into a violent conflict with Russia. Moscow denied involvement.

German authorities arrested a Ukrainian national, identified as Vadym Y, in Brandenburg on suspicion of spying for Russia. Prosecutors said he had been in contact with the Russian secret service via an intermediary since at least July 2025.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he was "not surprised" by the news. The arrest follows German accusations that Russia is waging a "shadow war" of drone attacks and sabotage, and BND chief Martin Jaeger told lawmakers Germany risks being drawn into a violent conflict with Russia. Moscow denied involvement.