German authorities have arrested two individuals in Brandenburg suspected of supporting the self-proclaimed separatist territories of Donetsk and Luhansk. The arrests involve one Russian and one German citizen.
Allegations of Support for Separatist Groups
According to the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office in Karlsruhe, the two men allegedly worked in prominent positions within an organization since 2016. This organization reportedly facilitated the transport of drones to the region. They are accused of providing support to foreign terrorist organizations in multiple instances.
The homes of both suspects have been searched. The Russian national is suspected of channeling over 14,000 Euro in funds to the “people’s republics” and financing goods transports. The German citizen allegedly traveled multiple times to the Donbass region to receive delivery orders and assist in the distribution of goods.
Classification as Terrorist Organizations
The Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office classifies the “people’s republics” of Donetsk and Luhansk as terrorist organizations. These pro-Russian groups reportedly seized control of the Ukrainian administrative districts of Donetsk and Luhansk beginning in the spring of 2014. This led to intense fighting with Ukrainian armed forces.
The prosecutor’s office states that violence against the civilian population was also repeatedly used during this period. By the end of 2022, the groups were integrated into the command structures of the Russian armed forces.
The two accused are scheduled to be brought before the investigating judge of the Federal Court of Justice on Thursday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges are the two men facing?
The two men are accused of supporting foreign terrorist organizations in multiple instances, according to the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office in Karlsruhe.
Where were the suspects arrested?
The arrests took place in the districts of Dahme-Spreewald and Märkisch-Oderland in Brandenburg.
When did the alleged activities begin?
The two men are suspected of working within the organization since 2016.
What implications might this case have for international efforts to address the conflict in Ukraine?
