Russia detains resident on treason charges

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has arrested a 34-year-old resident of Saransk, Mordovia, on suspicion of treason, according to the agency’s Public Relations Centre. 

Authorities allege that the sole trader established covert contact with a representative of Ukraine’s military intelligence via the Telegram messaging app, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media. 

Between August and October 2025, he reportedly registered more than 1,000 SIM cards and 10 virtual numbers with Russian telecom operators and provided access to these to Ukrainian handlers in exchange for payment.

The FSB claims the access was intended for remote fraud against Russian citizens and for planning and executing subversive activities.

The suspect is also accused of using cryptocurrency wallets to conceal financial transactions. He has been charged under Article 275 of the Russian Criminal Code, which covers treason in the form of aiding a foreign state.

The court has remanded the suspect in custody, and the investigation is ongoing to determine his involvement in additional incidents.

By Sabina Mammadli