MOSCOW — On Wednesday, Russia’s leading domestic security agency announced the apprehension of a German citizen, claiming he was plotting to sabotage energy installations under directives from a Ukrainian individual.

The Federal Security Service, commonly referred to as the FSB, stated that German national Nikolai Gayduk was detained as he crossed into Russia’s Kaliningrad region from Poland. Authorities reported finding half a liter (approximately one pint) of explosive liquid in his vehicle.

The agency did not clarify if Gayduk possessed Russian citizenship or a visa for entry into the nation, nor did it specify the precise timing of the arrest.

The FSB alleged that Gayduk, a Hamburg resident born in 1967, was conspiring to commit sabotage at the behest of a Ukrainian, identified as Alexander Zhorov, who also resides in Hamburg.

According to FSB statements, Gayduk was linked to an explosion that occurred at a gas distribution facility in Kaliningrad in March 2024. Consequently, a criminal case has been initiated against him, with charges encompassing a terrorist act and the smuggling of explosives. Reports indicated that a court had ordered him to be held in pre-trial detention while investigations and legal proceedings continue. However, further information on the matter was not made available.

German authorities have yet to issue any statements regarding this incident.