Trio accused over north London attacks
Two Ukrainian nationals accused of carrying out arson attacks on properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have pleaded not guilty at London’s Old Bailey.
Roman Lavrynovych, 21, and Petro Pochynok, 35, denied one count each of conspiracy to commit arson with intent to endanger life between April and May this year.
A third man, Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, from Romania, also appeared in court via video link but did not enter a plea.
The alleged offences relate to three fires in north London in May, including one at Starmer’s family home in Kentish Town and another involving a vehicle previously owned by the prime minister on the same street. A third blaze occurred at a property in Islington also connected to him.
All three men appeared on Friday wearing grey tracksuits and were assisted by interpreters.
Trial set for next spring
The Crown Prosecution Service alleges the defendants conspired “to damage by fire property belonging to another, intending to endanger life or being reckless as to whether life would be endangered.”
A trial has been scheduled for April 2026, with the defendants remanded in custody until their next pre-trial hearing.
The case has drawn national attention following reports that British security officials were investigating potential Russian involvement in the attacks. The Financial Times previously revealed that intelligence agencies had discussed how the UK might respond if evidence emerged of a foreign link.
Heightened security concerns
The incidents triggered a review of security arrangements for the prime minister and other senior ministers. Police confirmed at the time that no one was injured in the fires, but the attacks were being treated as targeted and politically motivated.
Officials have not publicly commented on any suspected foreign interference, though security sources say the investigation remains active.
The case will return to the Old Bailey early next year ahead of the full trial in April.
