Two Russian agents who were planning a terrorist attack against Ukrainian military personnel were detained in Kharkiv
Law enforcement officials in Kharkiv have uncovered two suspects accused of collaborating with Russian intelligence agencies. According to the investigation, they were planning a terrorist attack against Ukrainian military personnel by manufacturing a homemade explosive device under the remote guidance of handlers from Russia.
According to the investigation, the suspects are a 25-year-old Kharkiv resident and his underage accomplice.
Law enforcement officials determined that they were allegedly recruited by representatives of Russian intelligence agencies via Telegram. Initially, the suspects carried out test tasks: they photographed and videotaped specific targets, and set fire to a vehicle belonging to the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
After that, they received a new assignment—to plan a terrorist attack against Ukrainian military personnel.
“One of these tasks was to eliminate military personnel who would gather for a specific event,” the National Police reported.
According to investigators, the suspects rented a private house and equipped it with a video surveillance and remote control system.
Subsequently, their handlers instructed them to manufacture a homemade explosive device, providing detailed instructions and funds to purchase the necessary components.
“The suspects even received detailed instructions, as well as funds to purchase the necessary components. They manufactured the explosive device in the apartment of a minor accomplice in Kharkiv under the remote supervision of a representative of the Russian special services,” the police noted.
According to preliminary information, they planned to install the explosive device in a rented house and remotely detonate it while Ukrainian military personnel were present there.
Law enforcement officers detained the suspects during the final stage of the explosive device’s manufacture.
During the searches, the following items were seized:
- components for manufacturing homemade explosives;
- specialized equipment;
- cell phones used to communicate with their handlers.
According to investigators’ estimates, the explosive device could have had a yield of approximately 10 kg in TNT equivalent.
Both detainees have been notified of the charges against them. Depending on their respective roles, they are charged with:
- preparation to commit a terrorist act;
- illegal handling of weapons and explosive substances.
The court ordered the suspects to be held in pretrial detention.
If found guilty, they face life imprisonment.
This was reported by the National Police of Ukraine.
