Bulgarian Spy Trial Continues in the UK
The trial of six Bulgarians accused of spying for Russia is ongoing in the United Kingdom. The head of the alleged "spy cell," Orlin Rusev, and Biser Dzhambazov have pleaded guilty. Three others - Katrin Ivanova, Vanya Gaberova, and Tihomir Ivanchev - have pleaded not guilty, according to BNR correspondent in London Vesselin Paunov. The position of the sixth member of the group, Ivan Stoyanov, remains unclear.
Evidence presented in court suggests that Rusev worked closely with Austrian national Jan Marsalek, receiving instructions and funding for their operations. One of these operations involved monitoring and developing a plan to assassinate Bulgarian investigative journalist Hristo Grozev. The group also allegedly targeted journalists, Russian dissidents, and a US military base.
The women in the group reportedly served as "sexual bait" for espionage purposes. They used advanced technology to collect information not only in the UK but also in other European locations.
This case highlights the ongoing threat of espionage and the lengths to which individuals may go to gather intelligence. The trial is expected to continue, with further details likely to emerge as the proceedings unfold.