Former Russian Diplomat Sentenced to 12 Years for Spying for the United States

A Moscow court has sentenced a former Russian diplomat to 12 years in a maximum-security prison after convicting him of spying for the United States, according to Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB).

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FSB Details Treason Charges

The FSB said Arseniy Konovalov, a former Russian Foreign Ministry official born in 1987, was found guilty of treason for transferring classified state information to U.S. intelligence agencies while posted in the United States. Investigators said he provided the information in exchange for money during a long-term diplomatic assignment.

Arrest and Detention Footage Released

Konovalov was arrested by Russian counterintelligence officers in March 2024. Russian state media later broadcast video footage of his detention, showing him appearing visibly shocked as authorities informed him of the treason charges.

Limited Disclosure on Shared Intelligence

Russian authorities did not disclose the nature of the classified information allegedly shared or identify the U.S. intelligence agency involved. U.S. intelligence officials have made no public comment on the case.

Previous Posting in the United States

According to Russia’s Kommersant newspaper, Konovalov previously served as second secretary at the Russian Consulate General in Houston and worked in the United States from 2014 to 2017.

The case of Arseniy Konovalov highlights ongoing tensions between Russia and the United States over espionage and national security. His conviction and 12-year prison sentence serve as a stern warning to officials about the severe consequences of leaking classified information.