The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has successfully prevented a planned double terrorist attack in Kyiv, apprehending a Russian agent who intended to target a military personnel and first responders.
According to the SBU, the assailant’s initial plan involved placing an improvised explosive device under the vehicle of a Ukrainian soldier. The device was designed to detonate remotely as the soldier approached the car. Following this, another bomb was set to explode when emergency services arrived at the scene.
Authorities intercepted the plot before it could be executed, detaining the suspect at his residence while he was preparing explosives for remote activation using mobile phones.
The investigation revealed that the individual, a laborer from the South Caucasus, had been living in Kyiv for an extended period and had been recruited by Russian operatives. He was reportedly identified by the occupiers while seeking quick financial gains through Telegram.
The suspect received instructions from his Russian handlers on how to create homemade explosives from readily available materials, subsequently purchasing components online.
After assembling the explosives, the agent planned to approach the parked military vehicle and place one bomb under the hood while positioning another nearby.
During a search of his premises, law enforcement discovered a homemade bomb, materials for its construction, a smartphone containing evidence of his collaboration with the enemy, and military grenades.
The Russian agent has been charged under Article 14, Part 2 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine for preparing a terrorist act, which carries a potential sentence of up to 12 years in prison along with asset confiscation.
Ukrainian authorities have averted a potential terrorist attack targeting military personnel and first responders in Kyiv. A Russian agent was arrested while preparing explosives, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.