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'Euro 2016 terror attack thwarted' says Ukraine intelligence agency

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Footage is released showing Ukraine state security arresting a Frenchman who planned to carry out 15 terror attacks before and during Euro 2016.

Several planned terror attacks during the Euro 2016 tournament in France have been thwarted, according to a Ukrainian security chief.

The head of the state's security services said a Frenchman was detained in the country after making contact with illegal armed groups to buy guns and explosives.

It is claimed that he intended to target Muslim and Jewish places of worship in France, plus administrative buildings and infrastructure such as bridges and railways.

Vasily Gritsak said the unnamed man was arrested in late May on the border with Poland, carrying 125kg of TNT.

Over 1,000 security guards will join 400 police and special forces at the match
Image: Security will be tight at Euro 2016 matches

The suspect had been tailed since December, Mr Gritsak said, and was seen buying five machine guns, two rocket-propelled grenades, and other weapons.

At a news conference he said: "The Frenchman spoke negatively about his government's actions, mass immigration, the spread of Islam and globalisation, and also talked about plans to carry out several terrorist attacks."

French Police and emergency rescue forces take part in a mock terrorist attack drill at a "fan zone" in Bordeaux
Image: French police and emergency rescue forces take part in a mock terrorist attack drill at a 'fan zone' in Bordeaux

Last week the US State Department issued a "potential terrorist attacks" warning for Americans planning to travel to Europe.

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The travel alert, which expires on 31 August, made no mention of specific threats to Euro 2016 matches or other events, but warned US citizens to "exercise vigilance" and "avoid crowded places".

Spectators gather on the pitch after news of the bombing and terrorist attacks in Paris reaches the fans
Image: Spectators gather on the pitch after news of the bombing and terrorist attacks in Paris reaches the fans at Stade de France in November

France's national stadium, the Stade de France, was one site targeted during the 13 November Paris attacks that left 130 people dead.

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