Accused Russian spy faces court for first time
Rex Martinich |
A Russian-Australian man accused of spying on the Ukrainian military has spoken briefly in his first court appearance.
Vladimir Teslov, 27, was arrested in Brisbane’s southwest in August and charged with attempting to engage in foreign interference
The Victorian man reportedly travelled to Russia in October 2024 for military-style training, before returning to Australia and going to Ukraine the following year to join its armed forces.
He allegedly provided the location and operation of Ukrainian military activities to Russian forces as part of the country’s ongoing invasion of its southwestern neighbour.
Teslov had not been required to appear in court in person immediately after his arrest in August.
The dual Russian and Australian citizen appeared by video link on Friday in Brisbane Magistrates Court wearing a green jail-issue shirt.
Teslov did not speak except to confirm his identity and when asked by the magistrate if he had any questions.
“No, Your Honour,” Teslov said.
Work had started on preparing the brief of evidence, Commonwealth prosecutor Ellie McDonald told the court.
But another eight weeks were required before the first tranche could be served on Teslov
Analysis of 17 devices seized in the investigation was not complete, Ms McDonald said.
Mr Mack adjourned the matter to December 4.
Teslov’s arrest came following an investigation by the federal police’s counter foreign interference task force.
It marked the first time the task force had charged a Russian-linked person under foreign interference laws.
Australian Federal Police alleged Teslov maintained contact with individuals he believed were connected to Russian intelligence services.
“Investigators will allege the man then travelled to Ukraine in May 2025, where he joined the Ukrainian armed forces, gaining access to information relating to military personnel, units and locations,” AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett told reporters in August.
Teslov did not apply for bail and was remanded in custody.
He has not been required to enter pleas at this stage.
AAP