A leaked intelligence memo published by The Telegraph claims that former Western special forces personnel, including individuals believed to have served in Britain’s Special Air Service, trained Russian civilians and military personnel at combat camps in Europe.

The memo reportedly concluded with certainty that former Western military personnel—and possibly some active-duty soldiers—trained Russians at facilities in Bulgaria and Serbia.

The report is based on interviews with two former Australian special forces members and a reservist, who said they were offered work as instructors at training camps in the region.

At the center of the report is the Alpha Metal military training center in northern Bulgaria, which offers advanced sniper courses and training at a cost of approximately 4,000 euros per person.

According to the report, private training centers in Europe have provided courses to Russian civilians since 2012. Former Australian military personnel said the training continued at the facility until 2025.

The allegations are currently being examined as part of an investigation by Australian intelligence officials. The findings are expected to be shared with British and American authorities.

Alpha Metal strongly denied employing former SAS personnel or training Russian civilians since the start of the war, calling the allegations “false.”

The report comes amid a serious manpower crisis in Russia. Western officials estimate that approximately 1.4 million Russian military personnel have been wounded or killed since the war began, including at least 500,000 deaths, while Russia is losing approximately 6,000 soldiers per month—more than it can replace through recruitment.

British and Australian law also prohibits former special forces personnel from using their skills to assist a foreign country.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)