Russia Charges Former U.S. Consulate Employee With Spying on Ukraine War

Robert Shonov, a Russian citizen, was charged with illegally collecting information on Russia's war in Ukraine while working at the U.S. consulate in Vladivostok.
Shonov is accused of gathering details on Russian military operations, mobilization, and potential impacts on political protests ahead of the 2024 Russian presidential election.
Two U.S. diplomats allegedly instructed Shonov to collect the information and have been summoned for questioning by Russian authorities.
The U.S. State Department condemned Shonov's arrest and denied the allegations, stating he only compiled publicly available information.
Shonov faces up to eight years in prison if convicted under new Russian laws criminalizing cooperation with foreign organizations.