Romanian Citizen Sentenced to 15 Years for Espionage in Russia

Adrian-David Kercho, a 24-year-old Romanian citizen, was sentenced to 15 years in a Russian penal colony for espionage on behalf of Ukraine. He was accused of collecting and transmitting information about Russian military facilities, specifically air defense systems in Sochi, to Ukrainian intelligence. The FSB reported that he sought to join a Ukrainian armed group and was promised safe passage out of Russia in exchange for his activities. Kercho was arrested in Abkhazia in December 2024 and later deported to Sochi, where he was detained. The Romanian Foreign Ministry confirmed his detention and is providing consular assistance. Additionally, another individual was sentenced to 15 years for similar espionage activities in Yaroslavl, highlighting ongoing concerns about foreign espionage in Russia.

Key Points: • Adrian-David Kercho was sentenced to 15 years for espionage in Russia. • He was accused of gathering intelligence on Russian military facilities for Ukraine. • The Romanian Foreign Ministry is involved in providing consular support.