Katrin Ivanova, a Bulgarian national residing in the UK, has denied allegations of being part of a Russian spy network, asserting she believed her actions were part of journalism rather than espionage.
Bulgarian Woman Accused of Espionage in the UK Firmly Denies Charges
Bulgarian Woman Accused of Espionage in the UK Firmly Denies Charges
Katrin Ivanova claims she was unaware of espionage activities, insisting they were merely journalistic efforts.
Katrin Ivanova, a 33-year-old Bulgarian woman, has come forward to firmly deny charges of espionage during her trial in the UK, where she is accused of collaborating with a Russian intelligence cell. The court heard allegations that Ivanova was involved in covert operations across the UK and Europe, specifically targeting a US military base in Germany and conducting surveillance on investigative journalists deemed adversaries by the Kremlin.
Testifying in her defense, Ivanova reiterated that she was completely unaware that the information she gathered would be relayed to Russian authorities. "I followed individuals connected to specific operations and traveled across Europe, but I never comprehended the full intent behind these activities," she clarified. Ivanova claimed that one particular operation aimed at investigative journalist Christo Grozev was misconceived as an effort to expose corruption rather than a spy mission.
The prosecution raised concerns that the targeted journalists faced severe risks, including potential kidnapping or assassination. In her testimony, Ivanova described her long-standing relationship with her partner, Biser Dzhambazov—who has confessed to charges of spying—as one of trust. "He has been my partner for over a decade; it's hard to believe he would involve me in something dangerous," she commented.
Moreover, she explained that her participation in these operations was purportedly to assist Dzhambazov's friend Orlin Roussev, who provided financial support when she and Dzhambazov settled in the UK in 2012. Ivanova recounted her initial admiration for Roussev, perceiving him as a model immigrant success story.
As the proceedings continued, Ivanova emotionalized recounting the moment she learned of Dzhambazov's arrest alongside fellow accused spy Vanya Gaberova in their bedroom. She recalled how Dzhambazov had claimed he was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor, a narrative she has since doubted, believing it may have masked a double life with Gaberova. The trial remains ongoing as the key figures in this espionage case face scrutiny.
