Australia has accused Russia of inciting anti-Russian paranoia following the arrest of a Russian-born couple on espionage charges, prompting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to urge Moscow to cease its interference.
The Australian Federal Police announced on Friday that the couple, who hold Australian citizenship, were detained for allegedly attempting to access national security materials. However, no significant breach has been identified.
The Russian embassy in Canberra, in a statement to the Russian Information Agency, identified the couple as Kira Korolev, 40, and Igor Korolev, 62, who hold dual Russian and Australian citizenship.
The embassy claimed the arrests aimed to provoke anti-Russian sentiment and distract Australians from the ruling Labor Party’s policy failures.
Prime Minister Albanese responded by asserting that Russia must stop meddling in the internal affairs of other sovereign nations.
Speaking from Brisbane, he emphasized that Russia’s espionage activities are not confined to Australia but are a global issue.
Australia has been a significant non-NATO supporter of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022. Recently, Australia announced a $170 million military aid package for Ukraine during a NATO summit in Washington.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported that the Russian embassy has requested written information from Australian authorities regarding the couple’s status and is considering appropriate measures to provide consular assistance.
