Police granted more time to question US soldier suspected of spying for Russia

A senior US Army soldier arrested in the UK on suspicion of spying for Russia can now be questioned by police for longer, after officers secured a warrant of further detention.

The 41-year-old man can be held in custody until Tuesday 17 November after he was arrested near Gloucester on Tuesday of this week.

Counter-terror police are carrying out the investigation, and officers have searched two locations in Gloucestershire as part of it.

The man was arrested on suspicion of offences under sections 1 and 3 of the National Security Act 2023, which cover obtaining or disclosing protected information and assisting a foreign intelligence service.

Police said the country to which the allegations relate is Russia.

It has been reported that the soldier was based at Imjin Barracks, in Innsworth, Gloucestershire, which is home to the headquarters of Nato's Allied Rapid Reaction Corps.

FBI director Kash Patel said at the time of the arrest that it involved “allegations of espionage, which is of the utmost concern to the United States and our allies”.

He said: “While this investigation is continuing, I want to send a clear message – this FBI has no tolerance for anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and whose actions endanger our national security and that of our partners.”

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, senior national co-ordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing, said after the man was detained: “This significant arrest and investigation is a result of close collaboration between UK and US authorities.

“The allegations are serious and our investigation is very much ongoing.”

She added: “We will work together to take robust action against those we suspect of any criminal activity that could undermine our national security.”

Brigadier General Sean Stinchon, the commanding general of US Army Counterintelligence Command, said: “This case demonstrates the strength of our partnerships and the resolve of the counterintelligence community.

“I am grateful to the UK and the FBI for their professionalism and teamwork throughout this investigation.

“The alleged conduct of a senior soldier, entrusted with sensitive information, is a sobering reminder that insider threats are real and persistent.”

The warrant means the man can be held in custody until Tuesday November 17 while questioning continues.