Six Men Stand Trial in London Over Wagner-Linked Ukraine Arson

Six men have gone on trial in London over an arson attack on a business supplying aid to Ukraine, including Starlink satellite equipment, with prosecutors alleging the act was orchestrated by Russia's Wagner mercenary group. The attack caused about £1 million in damage and risked lives, with defendants including Dylan Earl and Jake Reeves, who have admitted charges including aggravated arson and offenses under the UK's National Security Act. Prosecutors presented overwhelming evidence such as CCTV footage and phone records showing how the defendants carried out the attack, including livestreaming the arson. The defendants may have been motivated by financial gain, while the organizers acted on behalf of Wagner, a group banned as a terrorist organization in the UK. The trial also revealed other alleged plots involving arson and kidnapping linked to Wagner's efforts to disrupt support for Ukraine, highlighting broader concerns about Russian interference and sabotage in the UK. The Kremlin denies involvement in these activities, rejecting British accusations of espionage and sabotage.