3 US soldiers face espionage, bribery charges

Washington

Three individuals, including two active-duty U.S. Army soldiers, have been arrested and charged with crimes involving bribery, theft, and espionage, with one accused of spying for China, according to the U.S. State Department.

Sergeant Jian Zhao, stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, is accused of conspiring to obtain and transmit classified military data to individuals in China. Prosecutors allege he sold classified hard drives, including files marked “SECRET” and “TOP SECRET,” receiving at least $10,000. Zhao is also accused of attempting to sell stolen U.S. government equipment, including encrypted military computers.

The indictment states that Zhao conspired with unknown individuals to steal national defense information from July 2024 until his recent arrest. He faces charges in the Western District of Washington for espionage, bribery, and theft of government property.

In a separate case, active-duty soldier Li Tian and former soldier Ruoyu Duan were charged in Oregon for conspiring to commit bribery and theft of military data. Prosecutors claim they worked together to collect and transmit sensitive U.S. Army operational information in exchange for money.

Authorities allege Tian provided Duan with data on military weapon systems, including details about Bradley and Stryker fighting vehicles. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that China’s attempts to steal U.S. military intelligence pose a growing threat.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi vowed “swift, severe, and comprehensive justice” for the accused. The FBI and Army Counterintelligence Command continue to investigate.

“These arrests highlight the persistent foreign intelligence threats facing our military,” said Brig. Gen. Rhett Cox, urging vigilance in protecting U.S. national security.