Ukrainian Nationals Jailed for Arson Attacks on Properties Linked to Prime Minister Starmer
Roman Lavrynovych, 22, a Ukrainian national, was sentenced to seven years in prison, while Stanislav Carpiuc, 27, a Ukrainian-born Romanian national, received a two-year sentence at the Old Bailey. The court heard that these arson attacks were ordered on behalf of Russia.
Lavrynovych carried out the attacks after being recruited by an anonymous Russian-speaking Telegram user, identified as "EL," who promised payment. The judge, Mr Justice Garnham, characterised Lavrynovych as a "useful idiot" who was "easily bought" and had accepted this "grubby little task" as he had others.
Carpiuc played a "supporting role" in the "utterly reckless" incidents. A Toyota car previously owned by Sir Keir Starmer was set alight in Kentish Town on 8 May 2025. On 11 May, a fire was discovered at flats in Islington linked to Sir Keir, where he had lived years prior. The following day, a fire was found at the entrance to Sir Keir's Kentish Town home, which he still owned and rented to his sister-in-law, Judith Alexander, who testified about the black smoke engulfing the stairwell.
Lavrynovych and Carpiuc were convicted of conspiring to damage property by fire between 1 April and 13 May 2025. Lavrynovych was also found guilty of damaging property by fire, being reckless as to whether life was endangered. A third man, Petro Pochynok, 35, was acquitted of the conspiracy charge.
Following the arson, "EL" instructed Lavrynovych to dispose of his clothes and leave the city, but he was arrested hours later. During police questioning, Lavrynovych claimed ignorance of the Prime Minister's identity. His barrister described him as a "complete and utter foot soldier," expressing his client's remorse and the "shame he has brought on the family in Ukraine."
Carpiuc was apprehended at Luton Airport while attempting to travel to Romania. His barrister stated Carpiuc's role was solely as the "money man," motivated by helping a friend with urgent funds for his father's medical treatment.
