MI5 warns of Russian spies plotting chaos in Britain

In the UK, MI5's director-general, Ken McCallum, has issued a warning regarding the increasing threat of terrorism linked to foreign states, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. He highlighted that MI5 has successfully thwarted 20 plots backed by Iran over the past two years, indicating a significant rise in state-sponsored threats. The expulsion of over 750 Russian diplomats from Europe since the invasion has led to a concerning trend where Russia and Iran are now enlisting British criminals and private intelligence operatives to conduct illegal activities on UK soil. McCallum also revealed that since 2017, MI5 has dismantled 43 terror plots, with a notable increase in investigations involving minors. Alarmingly, 13% of those under investigation for terrorism in the UK are now under 18, a threefold increase in just three years. This rise is particularly pronounced in extreme right-wing terrorism, which is increasingly appealing to younger individuals through targeted online propaganda. The intelligence chief's remarks underscore the challenges faced by MI5 in maintaining national security amidst evolving threats. The agency is under pressure to adapt to the changing landscape of terrorism, which now includes a younger demographic influenced by extremist ideologies. As the situation develops, the UK must remain vigilant against both foreign and domestic threats, with MI5 prepared to respond decisively to any illegal activities funded by hostile states.