Arson Attacks Connected to U.K. PM Keir Starmer Revealed

Officials have disclosed new information regarding arson attacks targeting properties linked to U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Suspects were allegedly recruited and guided by a Russian-speaking handler.

Investigation Details

According to police reports, the suspects were promised payment for launching a coordinated campaign in London, planned for May 2025. This included attacks on a vehicle and two properties associated with Starmer.

The handler involved is believed to be a diplomat trained in information warfare, and part of a wider Russian sabotage and disinformation operation from Moscow.

Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych, 22, and Romanian national Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, were convicted in connection with the arson plot. Lavrynovych was recruited by a Russian-speaking handler known as “El Money”. The third defendant, Petro Pochynok, 35, was acquitted.

Recruitment and Execution

As alleged, Lavrynovych was recruited via Telegram by “El Money”, who directed him through increasingly serious tasks with promises of payment. One message from the handler allegedly stated, “Look, you attacked the home of a very high-ranking person in Britain. I’ll send you the money you need to leave the city.”

Lavrynovych was allegedly offered Russian citizenship for completing the attacks and frequently received messages supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin. Evidence showed “El Money” received training in information warfare.

Russian Embassy’s Response

The Russian Embassy has denied any involvement, rejecting attempts to associate Russia or its foreign ministry with illegal activities.

The Sequence of Attacks

The three arson attacks took place over five days in May 2025. The first attack happened on May 8 when a Toyota vehicle formerly owned by Starmer was set ablaze. The second attack occurred on May 11 at the entrance of a residential property linked to a company where Starmer was previously a director and shareholder. The third attack was on May 12 at a house owned by the prime minister.

Reckless Actions

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, criticized the actions of the two men, stating they were “incredibly reckless” and fortunate not to cause fatalities.

Police arrested Lavrynovych on May 13 after connecting him to the attacks through CCTV footage and phone records indicating reconnaissance ahead of the fires. Carpiuc was apprehended on May 17 at Luton Airport just before leaving for Romania.