Ukrainian-born duo jailed for Russian-backed arson attacks on properties linked to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer
Two men have been jailed for a series of arson attacks on a car and property linked to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a plot that investigators say was orchestrated on behalf of Russia.Roman Lavrynovych, a 22-year-old Ukrainian citizen, was sentenced to seven years in prison at London’s Old Bailey, while Stanislav Carpiuc, a 27-year-old Romanian citizen who was born in Ukraine, was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in the conspiracy.
Fire target properties related to Starmer
The attack unfolded in May 2025 in north London. On May 8, a Toyota Rav4 previously owned by Starmer was set on fire in Kentish Town. Three days later, a fire was discovered in an Islington apartment linked to a property owned by the Prime Minister in the past.In the early hours of May 12, a fire broke out again at Starmer’s former home in Kentish Town, where Starmer’s sister-in-law Judith Alexander, her daughter and partner lived at the time.Thick black smoke quickly spread throughout the house, putting the occupants at risk, the court heard.
Telegram recruiter promises payment
Prosecutors said Lavrinovich was recruited via Telegram by an anonymous Russian-speaking contact named “EL” or “El Money.” The individual allegedly promised payment in cryptocurrency in exchange for carrying out the attack, filming the attack and ensuring the attack received media attention.Evidence presented during the trial showed that after the fire, handlers instructed Lavrinovich to throw away his clothes, collect cryptocurrency payments and leave London. He was arrested hours later when counter-terrorism officers raided his home in Sydenham.Investigators also revealed that Lavrinovich had previously completed other tasks for the same contact, including posting far-right posters.
Judge calls Lavrinovich a ‘useful idiot’
In handing down the sentence, Judge Garnham made a scathing assessment of Lavrinovich’s conduct. “You agreed to carry out this blind arson for money. You were easily bribed,” the judge said, describing him as a “useful idiot” who acted as a pawn for an unknown agenda.The judge rejected claims that Lavrinovich was unaware the property was occupied, saying he had a “complete disregard” for the danger he posed to residents.“You were used by Eastern Lightning to advance causes you knew nothing about,” he added.
Kapiuk plays a supporting role
The court found that Carpiuc played a minor role in the conspiracy, primarily handling cryptocurrency transactions related to the operation.His lawyers argued that Kapiuk did not expect to profit from the attacks but became involved while trying to help a friend raise money for his father’s medical treatment.Despite this, the judge ruled he knowingly supported a “completely reckless” criminal activity.
Third defendant acquitted
A third defendant, 35-year-old Ukrainian citizen Petro Pochynok, was acquitted on conspiracy charges.Lavrinovich was also convicted of damaging property by setting fire without regard to the danger to life. However, he was cleared of intentionally attempting to endanger life.
Family members express shock and shame
Outside court, Lavrinovich’s mother said she was “heartbroken and ashamed” of her son’s actions, describing him as naive and easily manipulated.Kapiuk’s father criticized the sentences, arguing that the mysterious Telegram recruiter who allegedly directed the attacks was unidentified and had not been punished.Helen Flanagan, London’s counter-terrorism policing commander, said the case highlighted a growing trend of crimes being directed remotely by anonymous online handlers who offer financial rewards.“Criminal acts such as arson being directed by anonymous online accounts promising payments is a recurring pattern in our investigations,” she said.
