A Scottish national has been sentenced to over eight years in prison in Ukraine after confessing to espionage activities on behalf of Russia. Ross David Cutmore, hailing from Dunfermline in Fife, was found guilty of transmitting sensitive military data to Russian forces in exchange for financial compensation.
Background and Arrest
Cutmore initially entered Ukraine in January 2024, where he worked as a military instructor for Ukrainian service personnel in the city of Mykolaiv. However, by September of that year, he had relocated to Odesa and established contact with a member of the Russian special services. He subsequently agreed to pass on military information for payment, according to the Ukrainian prosecutor general's office.
The prosecutor's office stated that Cutmore acted out of selfish motives and with the clear intention of transmitting data to the aggressor country. In May 2025, an investigation by the Ukrainian security service (SBU) uncovered that Cutmore had provided coordinates of Ukrainian units, photographs of a training area, and details that could identify service personnel.
Details of Espionage
Cutmore's activities included collecting data on facilities in Odesa and discussing the potential use of explosive devices. He also attempted to gain access to the command of military units. One specific task reportedly earned him $6,000 (£4,500). Additionally, authorities found him in illegal possession of a Makarov pistol and combat cartridges.
The SBU exposed and detained Cutmore in October 2025. On March 27, 2026, prosecutors submitted an indictment to the Kyiv district court of Odesa, along with a plea agreement. Cutmore admitted his guilt, leading to a sentence of eight years and six months in prison, handed down on April 30.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in combating espionage and foreign interference amid its conflict with Russia. The sentence serves as a deterrent to others who might consider similar actions.
