Berlin prosecutors have charged a Russian citizen with attempted homicide and attempted arson for allegedly planting an explosive device in a building housing Russian news agency employees. The 55-year-old suspect, whose name remains undisclosed, reportedly placed the device in the building's basement in late April 2022. The device failed to detonate and was subsequently discovered and defused.

Arrested on December 14th, the suspect had participated in anti-Russian government protests, including demonstrations outside the Russian Embassy in Berlin. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, he allegedly posted on social media about the targeted building, claiming it was a source of conflict. Prosecutors describe him as a controversial figure within Russian opposition circles. He also faces accusations of fraudulently obtaining pandemic relief funds and tampering with utilities in his apartment.

The suspect denies the charges, claiming he's a victim of a conspiracy orchestrated by Russian intelligence. However, prosecutors state that the investigation has not uncovered any evidence to support this claim.