Father 'Shocked' as Ex-British Soldier Is Accused of Aiding Russian-Linked Killings in Ukraine

The father of a former British soldier said he was "shocked" after learning his son has been accused of working with Russian intelligence to supply weapons and information tied to the killings of three Ukrainians between 2024 and 2025.

Allegations and arrest

Ukrainian authorities allege that Ross David Cutmore travelled to Ukraine in January 2024 as a military instructor and later offered assistance to Russian special services. The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the prosecutor-general's office say Cutmore provided firearms and ammunition and passed military information — including unit coordinates, photographs of a training facility and details that could identify personnel.

Accused role and timeline

According to investigators, Cutmore began contacts with representatives of Russian intelligence after moving to Odesa in September 2024 and received money for some tasks (one payment reported as £4,500). He was first detained in October 2024, although his identity was not publicly disclosed at that time. Ukrainian authorities say he remains in custody while inquiries continue; if convicted he could face up to 12 years in prison and confiscation of property.

Victims linked to the investigation

Ukrainian officials link the alleged operation to the deaths of:

• Demian Hanul, a 31-year-old activist and blogger who was shot dead in central Odesa in March 2024.
• Iryna Farion, a 60-year-old nationalist politician who was shot outside her home in July 2024.
• Andriy Parubiy, a 54-year-old former MP and prominent figure during the EuroMaidan Revolution, who was killed in August 2024 in Lviv.

Authorities have said they have evidence that Russian intelligence agencies ordered the killings; separate suspects have also been arrested in connection with some of the attacks.

Family reaction

"It came as a shock to me. I'm just lost for words. I'm just a normal person. I go to work. Just living my life — normal family,"

Cutmore's father, Ross John Cutmore, told reporters he learned of the arrest from his former wife and described the allegations as "embarrassing" as he tries to process the news. The elder Cutmore, a former soldier now working as a crane operator, said he is opposed to Russia's invasion of Ukraine and voiced support for Ukraine's struggle.

Official response

Ukrainian investigators say the case remains under active investigation. A UK government spokesman said officials are providing consular assistance to a detained British national and remain in close contact with Ukrainian authorities.

Note: All allegations reported by Ukrainian authorities are presented here as alleged. The accused remains in custody pending investigation and any potential trial.