Australian Soldier Charged with Spying for Russia
Australian authorities have arrested and charged a soldier, Kira Korolev, and her husband, Igor Korolev, with spying for Russia.
This marks the first case under Australia's stricter foreign interference laws implemented in 2018.
Couple Accused of Sharing Military Secrets
The couple, who are both Australian citizens originally from Russia, are accused of obtaining classified Australian Defence Force (ADF) materials with the intent to share them with the Russian government.
While investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the breach, Australian Federal Police (AFP) Commissioner Reece Kershaw emphasized there's no evidence of a significant compromise of military secrets at this point.
Australian soldier charged with spying for Russia https://t.co/ncIJKpNLmD
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Army Private and Husband in Court
Kira Korolev, a 40-year-old army private, and her husband Igor Korolev, 62, appeared in court in Brisbane facing one count each of preparing for an espionage offence.
This offense carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
Prime Minister Briefs on National Security
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged receiving a briefing from security agencies but refrained from commenting on the specifics of the case due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Couple Lived in Australia for Over a Decade
According to Mr. Kershaw, the Korolevs had resided in Australia for over ten years and obtained citizenship several years ago.
While Igor worked as a self-employed laborer, Kira held a sensitive position as an information systems technician in the ADF, requiring a security clearance.
Investigation Seeks to Determine Scope of Leak
The AFP is actively investigating whether any classified information was successfully transmitted. Mr. Kershaw indicated the possibility of upgraded charges depending on the investigation's outcome.
Authorities Vow to Counter Espionage
Both Mr. Kershaw (AFP) and Mike Burgess, head of Australia's spy agency, addressed the media but refrained from disclosing details about the specific documents involved or how the alleged offenses came to light. Mr. Burgess emphasized the ongoing threat of espionage and Australia's commitment to countering such activities.
"If you are engaged in espionage in this country, we are actively searching for you," he declared. "If you are a target of espionage in this country, we are watching out for you."
ADF Confirms Arrest and Pledges Strict Security Measures
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) confirmed the arrest of one of its personnel and reiterated its commitment to upholding the strictest security protocols.
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