Ukraine’s Military Counterintelligence of the Security Service prevented another terrorist attack in Kyiv. Acting preemptively, they detained a Russian agent who was planning two explosions in the capital.
According to available information, the suspect initially intended to place an improvised explosive device (IED) under the car of a Ukrainian soldier and then detonate it remotely as the soldier approached the vehicle. After emergency services arrived at the scene, a second bomb planted nearby was supposed to detonate.
SSU officers uncovered the plot in advance and arrested the suspect at his residence while he was preparing the IED for remote activation using mobile phones.
The investigation shows that the plot was organized by a laborer from the South Caucasus who had been recruited by Russian operatives and had lived in Kyiv for a long time. He came under Russian attention while seeking “quick earnings” through Telegram channels.
After being recruited remotely, the foreign national received instructions from a Russian intelligence officer on how to make improvised bombs from readily available materials. He ordered components online, synthesized chemical elements, and stored them in a food container.
The plan was for the suspect to arrive at the parked car at night and plant one bomb under the hood and the other next to the vehicle.
During searches, authorities seized the IED and components for its manufacture, a mobile phone containing evidence of collaboration with Russia, and combat grenades.
The suspect has been charged under Part 1 of Article 14 and Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (preparing a terrorist act).
Additional charges are being considered for illegal handling of ammunition and manufacturing explosives.
If convicted, the foreign national faces up to 12 years in prison and confiscation of property.
