Ukraine-born duo jailed in Russia-linked arson plot targeting Starmer properties

Ukraine-born duo jailed in Russia-linked arson plot

Two men have been sentenced to prison for carrying out a series of arson attacks targeting a car and properties linked to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a plot that investigators say was orchestrated on behalf of Russia. At London's Old Bailey, 22-year-old Ukrainian national Roman Lavrynovych was jailed for seven years, while Stanislav Carpiuc, a 27-year-old Romanian citizen born in Ukraine, received a two-year sentence for their roles in the conspiracy.

Fires targeted Starmer-linked properties

The attacks unfolded across north London in May 2025. On May 8, a Toyota Rav4 previously owned by Starmer was set on fire in Kentish Town. Three days later, flames were discovered at a flat in Islington linked to the prime minister's past property holdings. In the early hours of May 12, another blaze broke out at Starmer's former Kentish Town residence, where his sister-in-law Judith Alexander, her daughter and partner were living at the time. The court heard that thick black smoke rapidly spread through the property, placing occupants at risk.

Telegram recruiter promised payment

Prosecutors said Lavrynovych had been recruited through Telegram by an anonymous Russian-speaking contact known as "EL" or "El Money". The individual allegedly promised payment in cryptocurrency in exchange for carrying out the attacks, filming them and ensuring they generated media attention. Evidence presented during the trial showed that after the fires, the handler instructed Lavrynovych to discard his clothes, collect crypto payments and leave London. He was arrested hours later when counter-terrorism officers raided his home in Sydenham. Investigators also revealed that Lavrynovych had previously completed other assignments for the same contact, including putting up far-right posters.

Judge calls Lavrynovych a 'useful idiot'

While sentencing, Mr Justice Garnham delivered a scathing assessment of Lavrynovych's conduct. "You agreed to carry out this mindless piece of arson for money. You were easily bought," the judge said, describing him as a "useful idiot" who had acted as a pawn for an unknown agenda. The judge rejected claims that Lavrynovych did not realise the properties were occupied, saying he was "utterly reckless" about the danger posed to residents. "You were used by EL to advance some cause of which you knew nothing," he added.

Carpiuc played supporting role

The court found that Carpiuc played a secondary role in the conspiracy, primarily handling cryptocurrency transactions linked to the operation. His lawyer argued that Carpiuc had not expected to profit from the attacks and had become involved while trying to help a friend raise money for his father's medical treatment. The judge nevertheless ruled that he had knowingly supported an "utterly reckless" criminal enterprise.

Third accused acquitted

A third defendant, 35-year-old Ukrainian national Petro Pochynok, was acquitted of conspiracy charges. Lavrynovych was additionally convicted of damaging property by fire while being reckless as to whether lives were endangered. However, he was cleared of intentionally trying to endanger life.

Families express shock and shame

Outside court, Lavrynovych's mother said she felt "heartbroken and ashamed" over her son's actions, describing him as naive and vulnerable to manipulation. Carpiuc's father criticised the sentences, arguing that the mysterious Telegram recruiter who allegedly directed the attacks remained unidentified and unpunished. Counter Terrorism Policing London commander Helen Flanagan said the case highlighted a growing trend of criminal acts being directed remotely by anonymous online handlers offering financial rewards. "Crimes such as arson being directed by anonymous online accounts promising payment is a recurring pattern in our investigations," she said.