Details of the Arson Attacks

Officials recently provided insight into a series of arson attacks targeting properties tied to U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. According to reports, the suspects were coordinated by a Russian-speaking handler.

The suspects allegedly received promises of payment for conducting a deliberate campaign in London in May 2025. This included attacks on a vehicle and two properties associated with Starmer.

Investigations revealed the handler might be a diplomat trained in information warfare, part of a larger Russian operation aimed at sabotage and spreading misinformation.

Involvement and Convictions

Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych, 22, and Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, were convicted for their involvement. Lavrynovych was recruited by a Russian-speaking Telegram user known as “El Money.” Carpiuc, reported to have been born in Ukraine as well, faced similar charges.

A third defendant, Petro Pochynok, 35, was acquitted of all charges.

“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,” “El Money” allegedly communicated in a message cited by detectives.

Lavrynovych’s recruitment involved promises of Russian citizenship and financial gain for completing the attacks. Evidence suggests “El Money” underwent training in information warfare.

Alleged Coordination of Attacks

Russian operatives are believed to have coordinated these actions through social media and Telegram, using bogus communities to incite division in the U.K.

The Russian Embassy has denied any involvement, refuting claims linking Russia or its foreign ministry with unlawful activities.

Timeline of Attacks

The incidents occurred over five days in May 2025:

• May 8: A Toyota vehicle connected to Starmer was set on fire.
• May 11: A property linked to a company where Starmer had been a director faced a fire.
• May 12: Another fire damaged a house owned by the prime minister.

Authorities acted swiftly following these events.

Arrests and Evidence

Commander Helen Flanagan, leading Counter Terrorism Policing in London, highlighted the recklessness of the attacks. The actions nearly resulted in casualties.

Evidence, such as CCTV and phone records, linked Lavrynovych to the events. He was apprehended on May 13. Carpiuc was detained on May 17 at Luton Airport just before departing for Romania.