Russian-Israeli Couple Arrested in Montenegro With Spy Gear, Millions in Cash

A Russian-Israeli couple, Alexander (31) and Alexandra (42) Kruglyansky, were arrested at Tivat Airport in Montenegro earlier this week as they attempted to board a flight to Israel. The couple, who possess dual Russian and Israeli citizenship, were apprehended by customs and border officials due to suspicious items found in their possession. Authorities discovered 19 suitcases filled with undeclared electronic equipment, various currencies totaling approximately 26,210 euros and 1,150 shekels, and medications. Among the seized items were devices suspected of being used for surveillance and espionage, as well as communication equipment.

Following their arrest, police conducted searches in the coastal cities of Budva and Bar, uncovering an additional one million euros belonging to the couple, along with more electronic equipment, including further espionage tools. The Kruglyanskys, identified as former employees of a high-tech company in Moscow and his partner, are suspected of smuggling and money laundering offenses. A Montenegrin court has extended their detention for one month.

At this stage, no official charges have been filed linking the couple to any state-sponsored espionage activities, either for Russia or Israel. The investigation is reportedly in its early stages. This incident occurs amidst a backdrop of similar cases in the Balkans involving Russian citizens suspected of intelligence activities. Montenegrin authorities have previously reported arrests or deportations of Russian nationals for similar suspicions, including a case in 2024 where a Russian citizen was arrested at the request of Washington on suspicion of interfering in U.S. elections. No connection has been established between the current case and these prior events.