Two arrested in Rome for spying for Russia, including a former intelligence officer

On 7 July 2026 the Carabinieri ROS arrested two people in Rome on suspicion of espionage on behalf of Russia and unauthorised access to computer systems. As reported by ANSA, the case is run by the district and military prosecutors of Rome and centres on a 59 year old former member of Italy's intelligence community who had also served as a Carabinieri non-commissioned officer.

Investigators allege that he sold classified Italian intelligence and defence information to a person believed to be an officer of a Russian intelligence service who was operating in Italy under diplomatic immunity, receiving around 4,000 euros in cash for each item. He is said to have obtained material through six sources, including four serving members of the Italian military, all of whom are under investigation. Adnkronos published footage released by the Carabinieri showing how the suspect operated, with secrets reportedly handed over on notes during meetings on park benches and in bars.

A second person was arrested and five others remain under investigation. The inquiry began in May 2025, after counter-intelligence staff detected irregularities in the handling of classified material. The suspects face charges of espionage and unauthorised access to protected IT systems. The Russian handler and the specific service involved have not been publicly named.

The case is a counter-intelligence matter rather than an attack on physical infrastructure, but it fits a wider pattern of Russian intelligence seeking to recruit insiders inside European states. Italian authorities present it as espionage for money, with a former official as the conduit and serving military personnel among the sources. No court has ruled on the allegations, and the arrests mark the start of a judicial process rather than its conclusion. Attribution to a Russian service rests on the prosecutors' case and remains an allegation. This entry may change as the proceedings develop.