Lithuania charges multinational gang of Russian-directed sabotage attacks

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By ReutersJanuary 16, 2026 at 01:45 PM

AI Summary

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Lithuanian authorities announced on Friday, January 16, 2026, that they have charged a multinational gang of six individuals with attempted arson attacks in 2024 directed by Russia's GRU military intelligence. The targets included a Lithuanian plant supplying radio wave scanners to the Ukrainian military. The arrested individuals are nationals of Spain, Colombia, Cuba, Russia, and Belarus, and face up to 15 years in prison if convicted. According to Lithuanian police, the attacks were coordinated by individuals in Russia with ties to the GRU, who also orchestrated similar attacks in Poland, Romania, and the Czech Republic targeting oil infrastructure, warehouses, and public buildings. Lithuania has issued international arrest warrants for three additional suspects and is seeking extradition for a fourth arrested in Colombia.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Czech Republic ×230% Spain 30% Colombia ×230% Cuba 30% Belarus ×230% Poland ×230% Arturas Urbelis 40% Saulius Briginas ×340% Ukraine ×260% GRU (Main Intelligence Directorate) ×270% Lithuania ×580% Russia ×890%

Keywords

sabotage attacks 90% russia 80% lithuania 70% gru military intelligence 70% arson attack 60% radio wave scanners 50% ukraine 50% international arrest warrants 40% hybrid warfare 40%