British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the conviction of two men in an arson attack case involving properties linked to him and his family.
Speaking during the G7 summit in Evian, Starmer said justice had been served. He added that the verdicts brought relief to family members affected by the incidents.
The arson attack case focused on a series of overnight attacks in London during May last year. The targets included a former residence linked to Starmer and a vehicle he once owned. A court found Roman Lavrynovych, a Ukrainian builder living in London, and Stanislav Carpiuc, a Romanian national, guilty of conspiring to damage property by fire. The pair will return to court for sentencing later this week.
Prosecutors said the men followed instructions they received through Telegram. Investigators believe an unidentified Russian-speaking individual using the alias “El Money” directed the operation and offered payment.
The arson attack case has attracted significant attention because of reported links to individuals in Russia. Media investigations have pointed to possible connections with Russian networks, although authorities have not publicly identified the suspected organizer. Starmer said people should view the case within the broader context of the war in Ukraine and international pressure on Russia. He argued that Western sanctions continue to affect Moscow’s economic interests.
The arson attack case unfolded as the United Kingdom introduced a new package of sanctions against Russian interests. The measures target energy transportation networks, military supply chains, and financial systems that officials say help Russia bypass existing restrictions.
British authorities also targeted vessels linked to Russia’s so-called shadow fleet. These ships transport energy products and other cargo under alternative registrations to avoid sanctions. Government officials said the latest package targets more than 20 oil tankers. The measures also cover several liquefied natural gas vessels connected to Russian energy projects.
Starmer urged international partners to maintain pressure on Moscow and continue supporting Ukraine. He said G7 nations should work together to help secure lasting peace. The arson attack case remains under scrutiny as investigators examine the wider network behind the attacks. Meanwhile, attention has shifted to the sentencing hearing scheduled for later this week.
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