The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has arrested an individual identified as Robert Shonov, who is an employee of the US Consulate General in Vladivostok. According to the FSB’s claims, Shonov has been engaged in collecting information on specific matters under the instructions of two employees from the US Embassy in Moscow, namely Jeffrey Sillin and David Bernstein, since the autumn of 2022.

The information gathered by Shonov reportedly encompasses details about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, developments in mobilization efforts, and insights into issues posing challenges in various regions. Additionally, Shonov is said to have been tasked with assessing the potential influence of these challenges on protest activity in the lead-up to the presidential elections scheduled for 2024.

The FSB asserts that during questioning, Shonov confessed to his involvement and admitted that he had been seeking out Russian journalists, business figures, and politicians who held pro-United States sentiments. These individuals were intended to be instrumental in gathering relevant information.

Summonses have been dispatched to the US Embassy in Moscow as part of the FSB’s intent to conduct interrogations involving American diplomats.