British counterterrorism police arrest US soldier accused of spying on behalf of Russia

A member of the US Army has been arrested in near Gloucester in England. Police said he was suspected of espionage activity in connection with Russia.

Investigators from the US and UK are involved in the probe. A 41-year-old member of the US Army was arrested near Gloucester on Tuesday in England, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement .

Authorities were searched two locations in the Gloucestershire region, police said, adding: "The country to which the allegations pertain is Russia." Deputy Assistant Commissioner Vicki Evans, Senior National Coordinator for Counter Terrorism Policing called it a "significant arrest" as a result of "close collaboration between UK and US authorities." "While this investigation is continuing, I want to send a clear message — this FBI has no tolerance for anyone who breaks their oath to the United States and whose actions endanger our national security and that of our partners," Patel said.