A 59-year-old Greek citizen of Georgian origin was arrested on April 29 in Alexandroupolis for allegedly spying on NATO and U.S. military operations. Authorities say he filmed sensitive activity at a key port used to support Ukraine and allied forces in Eastern Europe. The man is now in custody, facing espionage charges as officials investigate his possible ties to Russian intelligence.
Suspect Filmed Military Activity at Strategic Port
Greek police, together with the National Intelligence Service (EYP), arrested the suspect during a joint operation. According to officials, he was spotted taking photos and videos of military vehicles and logistics near the port of Alexandroupolis.
This port, located in northeastern Greece, plays a critical role in NATO operations. It serves as a supply route for delivering weapons and equipment to Ukraine and other Eastern European allies. The port’s location makes it a strategic link between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea regions.
Alleged Use of Encrypted App for Espionage
Authorities claim the suspect shared the footage through an encrypted messaging app. He reportedly sent the files to a third party whose identity remains unknown. However, early findings suggest the recipient may be linked to Russian security services.
Investigators are now tracing digital communication between the suspect and a contact in Lithuania. Police suspect this person may have connections to Russian intelligence.
No official confirmation has been provided yet about the exact nature of the suspect’s affiliations. However, law enforcement sources say the evidence points to international coordination.
Court Appearance and Legal Defense
The suspect appeared before a court in Alexandroupolis on Friday. During the hearing, he denied all accusations. He said he never sent any classified or restricted information.
His lawyer told the court that all the images he captured were already available online or shown in media reports. “My client did not break any laws,” the lawyer stated, insisting the photos were from public areas.
Despite the defense’s claims, the man remains in pre-trial detention. A court date has not yet been scheduled.
Greek Authorities Expand Investigation
The National Intelligence Service is now reviewing the suspect’s travel history, contacts, and activity in recent months. Officials are also scanning his mobile devices and data logs to find potential evidence.
One official involved in the case said, “We are not only looking at what he captured, but also why, and for whom.”
Police have not revealed the man’s name. However, they confirmed that he is a Greek national with roots in Georgia.
NATO Presence in Alexandroupolis Under Scrutiny
The city of Alexandroupolis has become a focal point for NATO deployments in the region. The port has been used to transport tanks, helicopters, and other military assets to support operations in Ukraine. The increase in activity has also raised concerns over possible foreign surveillance.
In recent years, U.S. forces have increased their presence in the port under expanded bilateral defense agreements. These agreements aim to strengthen NATO’s southeastern flank in response to Russian aggression.
Concerns Over Espionage and Cybersecurity
Espionage cases involving NATO facilities have grown in frequency since the war in Ukraine began. Security experts warn that critical infrastructure, including ports and energy hubs, remains a prime target for foreign intelligence gathering.
A senior security analyst noted, “As NATO moves equipment and troops through frontline states, any leak of movement or logistics data could have serious consequences.”
This case adds to growing concerns over spying activity targeting NATO hubs in southern Europe. While the suspect denies the charges, investigators are treating the matter seriously due to the sensitive nature of the location and the geopolitical tensions involved.
