Two Russian operatives detained in Kyiv for supplying target data photo

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has detained two alleged Russian agents in the Kyiv region who, according to authorities, were acting on behalf of the FSB and collecting targeting data for a planned strike on the capital and surrounding area.

The SBU said its counterintelligence officers uncovered and disrupted the operation after determining that the suspects had been monitoring and relaying to Russia the geolocation data of Defence Forces units, including the positions of air bases.

The individuals reportedly used smartphones to document the sites, taking photos and recording videos while posing as if they were engaged in ordinary phone calls. The collected materials were then transmitted via messaging applications.

Investigators found that the two suspects were local drug addicts who had been recruited after encountering Telegram groups advertising “easy money.” According to the SBU, the agency documented their activities and apprehended them during the final phase of the operation. Searches conducted as part of the case led to the seizure of smartphones containing evidence of collaboration with Russia.

Law enforcement officials have formally notified the detainees that they are suspected of high treason committed by a group of persons under martial law. If convicted, they face life imprisonment and confiscation of property.

By Tamilla Hasanova