MOSCOW, October 7 (RAPSI) – Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has charged Ukrainian journalist Roman Sushchenko, who was allegedly spying on Russia’s Armed Forces and National Guard, with espionage, RIA Novosti reported on Friday.

“Today Sushchenko was charged with espionage,” – his lawyer Mark Feygin said.

Sushchenko will stay in jail until November 30.

According to the Federal Security Service (FSB), the Ukrainian citizen “has purposively collected classified information about the Armed Forces and National Guard of Russia.” Leak of data abroad could cause damage to national defense capability.

Sushchenko could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.

Ukrinform news agency confirmed that Sushchenko has been acting as its reporter since 2002. Since 2010, he has been working as Ukrinform’s personal correspondent in France. According to the agency, the man arrived in Moscow on private business during his vacation and was arrested immediately upon his arrival.

Ukrinform repelled accusations against Sushchenko calling him “a journalist with years of unblemished professional reputation.