Russian-Australian accused of spying on Ukrainian military faces court
Russian-Australian man Vladimir Teslov, 27, was charged with passing Ukrainian military secrets to Russia.
Vladimir Teslov appeared by video link on Friday in Brisbane Magistrates Court. He wore a jail shirt.
He spoke only to confirm his identity. He did not ask for bail.
Federal police allege he travelled to Russia in October 2024. He went there for military-style training.
Then he went to Ukraine in May 2025 to join its armed forces. While there, he allegedly gave Russian forces the locations of Ukrainian military units.
He also gave them information about their operations. The Australian Federal Police task force says this is the first time they charged a Russian-linked person under foreign interference laws.
Prosecutors told the court they need eight more weeks to prepare evidence. They are still looking at 17 seized devices.
The matter was put off until December 4.
- 27
- Suspect age
- August
- Arrest month
- October 2024
- Training trip
- May 2025
- Ukraine arrival
Why it mattersForeign interference charges carry serious penalties. This shows Australia is actively going after suspected spies. These spies work against allied nations.
AustraliaThis marks the first time Australian federal police have prosecuted a Russian-linked person under foreign interference laws, establishing legal precedent for espionage cases.
Corroborated bythenightly.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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