Canadian NATO Intern Arrested in Belgium Over Espionage Suspicion
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Belgian authorities have arrested a Canadian citizen who was working as an intern at NATO’s Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, known as SHAPE, near the city of Mons, over suspected espionage activities.
Belgium’s Federal Prosecutor’s Office said the woman is suspected of spying on behalf of an unidentified third country and of being a member of a criminal organization. Authorities have not released her name or disclosed which country she is alleged to have worked for.
The investigation began after security officials at SHAPE reported their concerns to Belgian military intelligence. Belgian federal police subsequently searched the suspect’s residence and workplace on Thursday, July 23, 2026, with assistance from investigators specializing in digital crime. She was placed under arrest the following day.
SHAPE serves as NATO’s strategic military headquarters and supports the planning and execution of the alliance’s military operations. It is part of Allied Command Operations and is based near Mons, Belgium.
A SHAPE spokesperson said there was no indication that NATO’s operational readiness, command-and-control arrangements or ongoing duties had been adversely affected by the incident. The headquarters continues to carry out its responsibilities without interruption.
Authorities have not revealed what information the intern is suspected of collecting or whether any classified material was accessed or transferred.
The accusations remain under judicial investigation, and no court has found the suspect guilty.
