Germany Opens Trial of Three Ukrainians Accused of Russian-Ordered Sabotage

Stuttgart, Germany – A trial commenced on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Stuttgart, Germany, for three Ukrainian citizens accused of preparing sabotage attacks allegedly ordered by Russian intelligence services. The defendants – Daniil Bielskyi, 22, Vladyslav Tkachenko, 25, and Yevhen Bezchasnyi, 30 – are accused of plotting to send parcel bombs from Germany to Ukraine, intending to cause damage in Germany or during transit within Ukraine [1, 2].

Allegations and Evidence

Prosecutors allege the three Ukrainians attempted to ship “parcel bombs with incendiary devices” with the goal of igniting them in Germany or during transport to parts of Ukraine not occupied by Russia, maximizing potential damage [2]. Prior to the alleged planned attacks, “test” parcels containing auto parts and GPS trackers were reportedly sent from Constance and Cologne in March 2025. These were intended to monitor logistics routes and identify potential targets for future attacks [2].

The defendants face charges of “conspiracy to commit aggravated arson” and “agent activity for sabotage purposes.” Bielskyi and Bezchasnyi also face a charge of “intelligence agent activity” [2].

Defense Arguments

On the first day of the trial, the lawyer for Vladyslav Tkachenko, Martin Heising, criticized the indictment as having “methodological weakness.” He argued that the evidence, particularly conversations on Telegram, was insufficient to prove Tkachenko’s intent or awareness of the planned sabotage acts [2].

Broader Context: Russian Sabotage Concerns

This trial occurs amid growing concerns from the German government regarding alleged Russian efforts to destabilize Germany and its allies through sabotage. Berlin has accused Russia of targeting critical infrastructure, including communication cables, railway lines, and airports [2].

German prosecutors believe the operation was “ordered by a Russian intelligence service through intermediaries in Mariupol,” a Ukrainian city occupied by Russia [1]. The alleged objective extended beyond material damage, aiming to undermine “the population’s feeling of security” according to the public prosecutor responsible for anti-terrorism [2].

Previous Incidents and Security Measures

The case echoes a previous incident in July 2024, when a package caught fire at a DHL center in Leipzig, Germany. German domestic intelligence previously accused Moscow of involvement [2].

In response to these threats, German lawmakers recently passed legislation to strengthen the “resilience” of the country’s critical infrastructure. This involves identifying essential infrastructure and requiring operators to enhance their security measures [2].

Kremlin’s Response

The Kremlin has denied any involvement in threatening European security, claiming instead that others are attempting to “destroy” Russia [2].

The trial is scheduled to continue until September 2026.