Lithuanian authorities have charged six foreign nationals with terrorism in connection with a 2024 attempt to set fire to military equipment destined for Ukraine. The defendants include a Spanish citizen, a dual Spanish-Colombian citizen, and nationals from Colombia, Cuba, Russia, and Belarus, prosecutor Artūras Urbelis confirmed.
Officials said the investigation indicates the acts were carried out on the instructions of Russia’s military intelligence agency, GRU. The intended target was Lithuanian company TVC Solutions and its products, including mobile radio stations meant for Ukrainian armed forces. The attempt failed when passers-by noticed the suspects.
Two of the suspects fled to Latvia and were arrested the same day. A Russian and Belarusian national also tried to carry out the attack in Lithuania but were unsuccessful. A Cuban national later arrived from Russia to assess the damage but was detained while attempting to leave the country.
The six face charges including financing terrorist activities, attempting a terrorist act, and participating in a terrorist group, the latter carrying up to 15 years in prison. Investigations are ongoing into four additional suspects, including a Colombian national awaiting extradition. Three international arrest warrants have also been issued for the remaining foreign nationals linked to the case.
Authorities said the group has connections to other attacks in the Czech Republic, targeting buses, a post office, shopping centres, and a cinema in Prague. They are also suspected of attempting arson at a paper warehouse in Romania and at oil and gas infrastructure, as well as attacks on warehouses in Poland.
