Russia linked to arson attacks on Starmer-linked properties, police say

British police said Monday that a series of arson attacks targeting properties connected to Prime Minister Keir Starmer may be linked to Russia. The incidents took place in London in May 2025 and involved a vehicle and two properties tied to the prime minister. Investigators said a Russianspeaking handler using Telegram allegedly recruited one of the suspects and promised payment, and in one case offered Russian citizenship. Police and court reporting identified Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych and Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc in connection with the case, while a third defendant was acquitted. Authorities said the attacks happened over five days, including the burning of a Toyota previously owned by Starmer, a fire at a residential property linked to one of his business roles, and a fire at a house owned by the prime minister. Police said no one was injured, and the Russian Embassy has denied any involvement.