Ukraine’s Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained a suspected hitman in Kyiv accused of attempting to assassinate an officer of the Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), according to Ukrainian authorities.
The arrest followed a multi-stage counterintelligence operation, with officers apprehending the suspect at the moment he allegedly drew a firearm and aimed it at the intelligence officer inside a venue in central Kyiv, as reported by NV.ua.
Suspect Recruited Through Telegram
According to the SBU, the attempted assassination was carried out by a 28-year-old citizen of a Central Asian country. Investigators said the man was recruited by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) while seeking “easy money” through Telegram channels.
After agreeing to the operation, the suspect entered Ukraine under the guise of a tourist and initially stayed in Pervomaisk, in Mykolaiv Oblast. During this period, he reportedly purchased multiple smartphones and SIM cards, which he regularly replaced to maintain secure contact with Russian handlers.
Surveillance and Weapons Cache
Authorities said the suspect later traveled to Kyiv, where he received a photograph of the intended target, approximate movement locations, and coordinates for a concealed weapons cache. The firearm used in the attempted attack was allegedly retrieved from that cache shortly before the arrest.
The SBU said the suspect had been promised $50,000 as well as assistance with legalization in a European Union country in exchange for killing the Ukrainian intelligence officer.
Arrest and Evidence Seized
During the arrest, officers seized a loaded pistol and a mobile phone containing correspondence and other evidence allegedly linking the suspect directly to Russian operatives. The SBU said the individual was caught “red-handed” during the attempted execution of the plan.
Criminal Charges and Possible Sentence
The suspect has been formally charged under several provisions of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, including:
- Attempted premeditated murder
- Aiding the aggressor state
- Illegal handling of weapons and ammunition
He is currently being held in custody and faces the possibility of life imprisonment if convicted.
Broader Security Context
Ukrainian authorities have repeatedly warned of intensified efforts by Russian intelligence services to carry out targeted attacks against military and intelligence personnel inside Ukraine. The SBU says it continues to disrupt such operations through counterintelligence monitoring and preventive arrests.
The latest detention underscores ongoing security challenges in Kyiv, even as Ukrainian intelligence services maintain heightened vigilance against covert operations linked to Russia.
