Russia's FSB security services have arrested a German national accused of being a "mercenary" for Ukraine, Russian media reported on Wednesday.
"The Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation has detained a German citizen who is a serving member of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," said a statement cited by news agencies.
According to the FSB, the man arrived in Ukraine last November and signed a three-year contract with the Ukrainian army, but had deserted after not receiving promised wages.
Born in 1976 and described as a "sniper", the German national had reportedly also served in Ukraine previously, between 2016 and 2018.
Russia, which launched a full-scale offensive against Ukraine in February 2022, frequently announces arrests of alleged collaborators with Kiev.
The arrest came a week after Russia said it arrested a Swedish man whom it also accused of fighting for Ukraine.
Russian courts have over the past four years handed down lengthy prison sentences to hundreds of individuals accused of "treason", "sabotage" or "espionage".
Several foreign nationals have also been convicted and imprisoned, including over alleged "mercenary activity" on behalf of Ukraine.
