Russia's FSB detains man over alleged Ukraine-linked sabotage plot

Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) says it has detained a man in St Petersburg on suspicion of assisting in the planning of a sabotage and terrorist attack allegedly linked to Ukrainian military intelligence.

According to a statement from the regional FSB directorate, the suspect—described as a Russian citizen born in 1974—was arrested after what officials called “operational and investigative measures," Caliber.Az reports per TASS. 

“The unlawful activities of a Russian citizen born in 1974 have been thwarted,” the FSB said. It alleged that the man had initiated online contact with a representative of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate and, “on the instructions of his handler, was preparing for a sabotage and terrorist attack.”

Authorities said the suspect was involved in photographing designated locations and was instructed to install a video surveillance device. He was reportedly promised $8,500 for completing the tasks, though the payment was never received.

In video footage released by the FSB, the man is seen stating that he carried out reconnaissance and prepared to install equipment at a specified site.

A criminal case has been opened against him on charges of “aiding terrorist activities,” and a court has ordered him to be held in pre-trial detention.

By Sabina Mammadli