Two British men charged with conducting hostile activity against Ukrainian-linked businesses to benefit Russia

They are one of five individuals charged, with one of their plans including the alleged orchestration of an arson attack on a Ukrainian-linked commercial property in London in March 2024.

Earl and Reeves are the first people charged under the new National Security Act 2023, which came into effect in December 2023.

Commander Dominic Murphy, Head of the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, which is leading the investigation, said: “This is a highly significant moment and investigation for us. Not only are the charges that have been authorised by the CPS extremely serious, but it is also the first time that we have arrested, and now charged anyone using the powers and legislation brought in under the National Security Act.

“We have spoken publicly in recent times about various threats linked to national security that we have been facing, and the increase in operational activity required across Counter Terrorism Policing to meet these.

“While these are very serious allegations, I want to reassure the public that we do not believe there to be any wider threat to them in connection with this matter. This investigation remains ongoing, but now that charges have been brought about I would urge everyone to respect the criminal justice process and not to speculate or comment further in relation to this case.”

Earl was charged on April 19 with aggravated arson, preparatory conduct, and assisting a foreign intelligence service.

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Reeves was charged on April 25 with aggravated arson and agreeing to accept a material benefit from a foreign intelligence service.

Nick Price, head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, said: "Dylan Earl, 20, is alleged to have engaged in conduct targeting businesses which were linked to Ukraine in order to benefit the Russian state.

"Included in the alleged activity was involvement in the planning of an arson attack on a Ukrainian-linked commercial property in March 2024."

Appearing at Westminster Magistrates Court on April 20, Judge Daniel Sternberg initially put reporting restrictions in place to prevent the identification of Earl, his co-accused, and any other details.

The restrictions have since been lifted.

Two other men - Paul English, 60, and Nii Mensah, 21 - have also been charged with aggravated arson in connection with the case.

Dmitrijus Paulauska was charged on April 25 with failing to disclose information to police about terrorist acts.

All five are due to appear at the Old Bailey on May 10.

"Criminal proceedings against these defendants are active," said Price.

"No one should report, comment or share information online which could in any way prejudice their right to a fair trial."