Details Emerge on Arson Attacks Linked to U.K. Prime Minister

Officials provided updates on a series of arson attacks aimed at properties associated with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Allegations suggest suspects were recruited by a Russian-speaking handler.

Police reports indicate that suspects were promised payment to execute coordinated attacks in London in May 2025. The targets included a vehicle and two properties tied to Starmer.

An investigation revealed that a handler, believed to be a diplomat trained in information warfare, directed operations from Moscow. The Kyiv Post highlighted connections to a broader Russian disinformation campaign.

Convictions in Arson Plot

Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych and Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc were convicted. Lavrynovych was reportedly recruited by a Russian-speaking Telegram handler, “El Money.” There were reports that Carpiuc was also Ukrainian-born. A third suspect, Petro Pochynok, was acquitted.

According to officials, Lavrynovych’s recruitment involved a series of tasks conducted through Telegram. For carrying out the attacks, the handler promised payment.

“Look, you attacked the home of a very high-ranking person in Britain. I’ll send you the money you need to leave the city.”

This message, allegedly sent by the handler, was cited by investigators.

Russian Involvement

Reports suggest the handler offered Lavrynovych Russian citizenship. Evidence points to the handler’s training in information warfare by Russian propagandists. Operatives scattered disinformation through social media, inflaming divisions in U.K. society.

The Russian Embassy denied any involvement, refuting connections between the Russian state and the activities.

Details of the Attacks

Officials detailed the timeline of the attacks over five days in May 2025. On May 8, a Toyota formerly owned by Starmer was set on fire. A second blaze occurred on May 11 at the entrance of a property linked to Starmer through past business roles. The final attack took place on May 12 at Starmer’s residence.

Authorities captured Lavrynovych on May 13. Surveillance footage and phone records grounded the link between the suspect and the incidents. Police apprehended Carpiuc on May 17 at Luton Airport.

Commander Helen Flanagan, of Counter Terrorism Policing London, remarked on the recklessness of the attacks.

“The actions of the two men involved in these arson attacks were incredibly reckless, and it was sheer luck that nobody was killed or injured.”

Both suspects faced severe consequences, demonstrating the importance of vigilance against coordinated disinformation efforts.