Ukrainian Special Services Allegedly Coordinate Terrorist Activities in Russia
The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia has reported the prevention of a terrorist attack in the Moscow region, allegedly coordinated by Ukrainian special services. The attack targeted a senior official of a defense industry enterprise that supplies products to the Russian Defense Ministry. According to the FSB's Public Relations Center, the criminals were in contact with their Ukrainian handlers through foreign Internet messengers, as evidenced by communication devices seized during the operation.
Seven Russian citizens, including three minors, were detained for their involvement in the plot. They were reportedly engaged in surveillance of the target's vehicle and had attempted to plant an improvised explosive device (IED) under it. The investigation revealed that these individuals were also involved in illegal activities such as the installation of SIM boxes, which facilitate secret communications and fraudulent activities against Russian citizens. A criminal case has been initiated against them for attempting to commit a terrorist act as part of a conspiracy.
Details of the Foiled Attack
The FSB's investigation indicates that the group had been planning the attack from November to December. They were allegedly promised a monetary reward of 1 million rubles for their actions. The detainees were caught in the act of planting the explosive device, which was concealed in juice boxes. One of the suspects revealed that he had been instructed by a man named Vadim, who had connections to Ukrainian operatives. The FSB has conducted searches at the suspects' residences and ordered forensic examinations to gather more evidence.
Broader Context of Ukrainian Activities in Russia
This incident is part of a broader pattern of alleged criminal activities linked to Ukrainian special services within Russia. The FSB has noted an increase in crimes, including ATM arson and telephone fraud, attributed to Ukrainian operatives. Russian President Vladimir Putin has characterized these activities as state-sponsored, drawing parallels to historical instances of economic sabotage during World War II. Furthermore, there have been reports of Ukrainian agents attempting to recruit Russians for sabotage missions and to gather intelligence on military movements. Recent arrests in Nizhny Novgorod and Yalta highlight the ongoing threat posed by these alleged networks, as they seek to undermine Russian security and stability.
