FBI Director Kash Patel Announces Shock Arrest of US Soldiers: ‘Empowering Adversaries Like China in Betrayal of Our Country’
FBI Director Kash Patel announced the arrest of two active-duty U.S. Army soldiers and one former soldier for allegedly stealing sensitive government secrets and providing them to China. The arrests, made on Thursday, followed indictments by federal grand juries in Oregon and Washington.
The individuals involved are Jian Zhao, Li Tian (both active-duty soldiers), and Ruoyu Duan (a former soldier). They are accused of conspiring to gather and sell classified military information, including technical manuals and data on U.S. weapons systems like the Bradley and Stryker vehicles, as well as details about the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and military readiness in the event of a conflict with China.
According to the Justice Department, Tian allegedly transferred sensitive information to Duan in exchange for payment, while Zhao reportedly received at least $15,000 for selling classified hard drives and other sensitive materials. Zhao also allegedly stole an encryption-capable computer containing critical defense information. These actions violate the duties of Army officers and pose a significant threat to national security.
Patel emphasized the seriousness of the breach, stating that the individuals betrayed their country by empowering adversaries like China. He praised the collaboration between the FBI and U.S. Army Counterintelligence in uncovering the scheme. Attorney General Pam Bondi also condemned the defendants’ actions, vowing that they would face “swift, severe, and comprehensive justice.”
The case highlights ongoing concerns about espionage and the theft of sensitive military information by foreign adversaries. The FBI and its partners continue to work to identify and hold accountable those who compromise national defense.
