Russian 'Z-Nuns' Exposed for Running Spy Network in Sweden

A network of Orthodox nuns operating in Sweden has been exposed for allegedly supporting Russian military aggression and maintaining links to Russian military intelligence, The Telegraph reported on January 18. According to the reports, members of the St. Elisabeth Convent, originally based in Belarus, were active in over 20 churches across Sweden. The women, referred to locally as “Z-nuns” for their public display of the pro-invasion “Z” symbol, sold religious souvenirs in Swedish parishes under the guise of charitable work. Swedish authorities now suspect the proceeds were used to support Russian military units involved in the war against Ukraine. In an official warning published by the Church of Sweden, the organization accused the convent’s representatives of using religious spaces to promote Russian nationalism and fund Russia’s war effort. The statement urged Catholic and Orthodox communities across the country to avoid all cooperation with the convent. The Church also noted the convent’s alleged ties to the Main Directorate of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, commonly known as the GRU. “This is not simply about charity,” said Kristina Smith, the Church of Sweden’s crisis planning chief. “It is part of a broader effort by Russian actors to gain access to religious spaces near military infrastructure in NATO countries.” Swedish security services are also investigating the Orthodox Church in Västerås, built just 300 meters from Stockholm-Västerås Airport. Authorities suspect the location could be used for surveillance or other intelligence-gathering activities. City officials have stated that the church is being investigated for potential reconnaissance operations against Sweden. Michael Ojerbo, a local priest who had hosted the nuns at his church in Täby, told Metro that he had not anticipated the potential risks and now regrets the invitation. He denied that their presence could have significantly financed Russian military operations, claiming the sales were minor. Earlier, France24 revealed that a Russian Orthodox church in Västerås, Sweden—built just 300 meters from a strategic airport and funded by a Rosatom-linked foundation—was under investigation for suspected espionage activities.