Counterintelligence, together with the military counterintelligence division of the Security Service of Ukraine, thwarted another attempt by Russian operatives to carry out new terrorist attacks in Kharkiv. Thanks to preemptive actions, a minor was exposed who, on orders from the FSB, was preparing a series of explosions in crowded areas of the regional center.
SSU officers caught the suspect “red-handed” during curfew while she was retrieving a homemade bomb from a cache disguised near garbage containers.
The investigation established that the perpetrator planned to transport the explosives by taxi to the city center and hide them for remote detonation during rush hour.
According to the case materials, the attack was orchestrated by a 17-year-old resident of Kharkiv, who was recruited by the Russians through a Telegram channel offering “quick jobs.”
Lured by the promise of “easy earnings,” the minor received from the FSB the coordinates of the stash containing the improvised explosive device (IED) and the location of the planned attack.
The agent also agreed to manufacture bombs herself using improvised materials following FSB instructions. She purchased chemical components and nails to increase the explosive’s destructive effect.
During searches, authorities seized a ready-made IED, five liters of chemical liquid, and other components for another explosive. A smartphone used to communicate with the FSB handler was also confiscated.
Investigators of the Security Service have charged the agent under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (state treason committed under martial law).
The suspect is in custody and faces up to 15 years in prison with property confiscation.
