Story perspectives

Two Sentenced for Arson Targeting Starmer, Russia-Linked Plot

6/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Roman Lavrynovych, Ukrainian, and Stanislav Carpiuc, Romanian-born, were sentenced in London for setting fire to a car and two properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
The arson was directed by El Money, a Russian-speaking Telegram user believed to operate from Russia.
Sir Keir Starmer said the convictions show justice has been done and urged the G7 to increase pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine.

History

Historical Context

The IRA’s 12 October 1984 bombing of Brighton’s Grand Hotel, intended to kill Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, killed five people and wounded over 30. Decades later, London courts convicted Ukrainian-born Roman Lavrynovych and Romanian-born Stanislav Carpiuc for arson ordered by Russian-linked Telegram user “El Money” against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Both attacks illustrate how foreign-backed violent plots have targeted Britain’s democratic leaders, prompting tighter security.

1 of 2

Story summary

Roman Lavrynovych, Ukrainian, and Stanislav Carpiuc, Romanian-born, were sentenced in London for setting fire to a car and two properties linked to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
The arson was directed by El Money, a Russian-speaking Telegram user believed to operate from Russia.
Sir Keir Starmer said the convictions show justice has been done and urged the G7 to increase pressure on Moscow over its war in Ukraine.

1 / 2