In a significant breach of national security, three current and former U.S. Army soldiers have been arrested on charges of theft, bribery, and conspiring to transmit national defense information to China.
This alarming development underscores the persistent threats posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting U.S. military personnel.
Details of the Arrests
The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced the arrests, highlighting the gravity of the offenses committed:
- Former U.S. Army Soldier: Ruoyu Duan has been charged with conspiring to transmit national defense information to individuals in China, theft of U.S. government property, and bribery.
- Current U.S. Army Soldiers: Li Tian and Jian Zhao have been arrested for conspiring to commit bribery and theft of government property.
Allegations Against the Accused
The DOJ’s investigation revealed disturbing details about the activities of the accused:
- Ruoyu Duan and Li Tian: Between November 2021 and December 2024, Duan and Tian allegedly collaborated to covertly gather military information regarding the Army’s operational capabilities. Tian is accused of transmitting technical manuals and details about U.S. military weapon systems, such as fighting vehicles, to Duan in exchange for monetary compensation.
- Jian Zhao: Beginning in July 2024, Zhao allegedly conspired to send classified hard drives to contacts in China. He also purportedly attempted to sell a stolen U.S. government computer and sensitive military documents, including information about an artillery rocket system and U.S. military readiness in potential conflicts involving China. The DOJ reports that Zhao received approximately $15,000 for his efforts.
Official Response
Brigadier General Rhett Cox, commanding general of Army Counterintelligence Command, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “These arrests underscore the persistent and increasing foreign intelligence threat facing our Army and nation.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi further remarked that the accused soldiers would face “swift, severe, and comprehensive justice,” highlighting their betrayal in working to weaken America’s defense capabilities and empower adversaries in China.
Recent Espionage Cases Involving U.S. Military Personnel
This incident is part of a troubling trend of espionage activities targeting U.S. military personnel:
- Korbein Schultz: In August 2024, U.S. Army intelligence analyst Schultz pleaded guilty to conspiring to sell military secrets to China. He was accused of disclosing national defense information, exporting defense articles without a license, and accepting approximately $42,000 in bribes. The sensitive information included Army lessons from the Russia-Ukraine war and details about U.S. military satellites. Schultz is scheduled for sentencing on January 23, 2025.
- Cameron John Wagenius: In December 2024, Army soldier Wagenius was indicted for selling stolen confidential phone records, including those of high-profile individuals like President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. Operating under the alias “Kiberphant0m,” Wagenius allegedly hacked telecommunications firms to obtain and sell these records. His case is being prosecuted in Seattle.
The arrests of Duan, Tian, and Zhao highlight the ongoing and evolving threats posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting U.S. military personnel.
These incidents underscore the critical need for vigilance, robust counterintelligence measures, and stringent enforcement of laws protecting national defense information.
The Department of Justice’s swift action in these cases reflects a commitment to safeguarding national security and maintaining the integrity of the U.S. armed forces.