Kazakh man arrested in Berlin for spying for Russia, prepared for sabotage

On or about April 28, 2026, German authorities apprehended a 47-year-old Kazakh national in Berlin suspected of acting as a Russian intelligence agent engaged in espionage activities nationwide. The suspect reportedly used his smartphone to extensively photograph government buildings, military convoys on Autobahns, security agency vehicles, and companies tied to the arms industry, then transmitted this material to Russian handlers. Though most images were of publicly accessible targets, the involvement of military vehicles from a NATO member state adds legal weight under the NATO Troop Status Act. Of significant concern, the suspect offered to mobilize a sabotage unit for attacks within Germany, proclaiming a willingness to undertake any operation. This incident highlights intensified Russian espionage and sabotage preparations in Germany, following recent public disclosures of alleged attack plans targeting a Bavarian drone firm and its management.