Australia Arrests Russian-Born Couple on Espionage Charges

Australia has arrested a Russian-born married couple, Igor and Kira Korolev, on charges of espionage. The woman, a former Australian Army technician, allegedly attempted to access and send defense materials to Russian authorities. The arrests coincide with Australia's largest military aid package to Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion.

Australia has taken into custody a Russian-born couple on espionage charges, accusing the woman, who worked as an information systems technician in the Australian Army, of seeking to access and relay defense material to Russian officials. Although no significant security breaches have been identified, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) is probing whether the confidential information was handed over.

AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw noted during a press briefing that the couple aimed to share the information with Russian authorities. The woman allegedly traveled to Russia and instructed her husband to log into her official account to procure defense materials from Australia.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized that actions against Australia's national security would be met with accountability. Igor and Kira Korolev, who have been charged under new espionage laws, appeared in court and were remanded in custody. The arrests were made on the same day Australia announced a significant military aid package for Ukraine at the NATO summit in Washington.

(With inputs from agencies.)