In a development that has sent ripples through security and diplomatic circles, authorities in Greece have apprehended a 59-year-old man in the port city of Alexandroupolis on suspicion of espionage activities in favour of the Russian Federation. The suspect, identified as a Greek national of Georgian origin, was arrested earlier this week following intelligence gathered by local security operatives, who reportedly monitored him photographing military logistics.
According to official statements released by the Greek police, the man admitted to capturing photos and videos of military equipment and transport convoys in Alexandroupolis — a city in northeastern Greece that has grown in strategic importance since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The suspect allegedly transmitted the collected visuals using an encrypted communication platform, acting on the instructions of another individual believed to be working as a proxy for Russian intelligence.
Further investigations have revealed that the suspect had once served in the Russian army during his younger years — a detail that security analysts suggest could have played a role in his recruitment. Intelligence sources speaking to international media agencies disclosed that the individual was likely approached and managed by a middleman of Georgian descent, reportedly linked to organised crime and currently residing in Lithuania. Greek media outlets have corroborated these findings, stating that the suspected intermediary is believed to have acted on behalf of Russia’s military intelligence agency, the GRU.
The arrested man, who presented himself as a house painter, was reportedly focused on documenting U.S. and NATO military supplies passing through Alexandroupolis — a port city that has become a crucial logistical hub for transporting military aid to Ukraine. Under the terms of a bilateral defence agreement between Greece and the United States, Alexandroupolis has seen increased activity in recent years, particularly in response to Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.
Despite its historically close ties with Russia, Greece has aligned itself with the broader Western bloc in supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity and defence needs. This move has made Greek infrastructure, including ports like Alexandroupolis, vital points of interest in the evolving geopolitical theatre of Eastern Europe.
The suspect was taken before an investigating magistrate on Friday, three days after his arrest. The case is expected to proceed to the judicial system as Greek authorities continue to work closely with their international allies to understand the full extent of the alleged espionage network and prevent any future breaches.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have yet to release the names of the suspect or his alleged handler, citing ongoing investigations and the sensitive nature of the case.