Vladimir Teslov accused of spying for Russia in Ukraine

Vladimir Teslov, a 27-year-old Russian-Australian citizen, appeared in a Brisbane court via video link following his arrest by the Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce in August. Teslov is charged with attempting to engage in intentional foreign interference.

Prosecutors allege that Teslov traveled to Russia in October 2024 for military-style training before returning to Australia. In May 2025, he reportedly traveled to Ukraine to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine, where he allegedly collected information while believing he was acting on behalf of or at the direction of the Russian Federation to support their intelligence activities.

The Australian Federal Police stated that Teslov’s alleged actions jeopardized the safety and security of Ukrainian military personnel. Authorities are currently analyzing evidence from 17 seized devices. This case marks the first time a person with links to Russia has been charged with attempting to engage in foreign interference since such laws were introduced in 2018.