Kathmandu— Russian security services have detained a foreign national accused of conducting reconnaissance in Moscow on behalf of Ukrainian intelligence, the Federal Security Service (FSB) stated Friday. The suspect was apprehended earlier this month in Russia’s Murmansk Region while attempting to cross into Norway. According to the FSB, the individual had established contact with Ukrainian intelligence services in 2023 and was tasked with identifying key infrastructure targets, including railway hubs and administrative buildings, using a first-person view (FPV) drone.
Surveillance Operation Details
The detained man allegedly received orders from his Ukrainian handlers to travel to Moscow and survey a major train hub for freight trains carrying petroleum products. He was also instructed to gather information on administrative buildings in the city center, according to the FSB. The suspect’s alleged plan involved attempting to launch an FPV drone to collect this intelligence.
Escalating Ukrainian Activity
The FSB claims that Ukraine has been increasing attempts to carry out attacks within Russia as a response to battlefield setbacks and its inability to significantly damage infrastructure near Moscow. These planned attacks reportedly involve short-range kamikaze drones launched by agents and collaborators recruited online, including individuals targeted by fraudulent Ukrainian call centers.
Previous Drone Plot Thwarted
This arrest follows a previous FSB announcement last month detailing the disruption of another Ukrainian drone plot. That operation allegedly involved smuggling 24 AI-guided drones into Russia with the intent to target defense industry facilities and military airfields. The FSB stated that this earlier attempt was orchestrated by Ukrainian intelligence with assistance from Western handlers.
The FSB has warned that involvement in such activities carries severe penalties under Russian law, including potential life imprisonment. Investigations are ongoing.
(With inputs from RT)
Originally published on abcnews.com.np.
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