SBU detains suspected deserter accused of aiding Russian air strikes

The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has detained a Ukrainian soldier, accusing him of desertion and aiding Russian air strikes on Vinnytsia and Sumy oblasts, according to statements from the SBU press service and the Office of the Prosecutor General.

Amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, Russian espionage and sabotage activities in Ukraine remain significant threats, with the SBU regularly dismantling spy networks, often coordinated by the Russian FSB and GRU agencies. The networks often comprise Ukrainian citizens who gather intelligence on defense positions and critical infrastructure in exchange for promised financial rewards.

The suspect, identified as a 23-year-old deputy commander of a combat vehicle, allegedly fled his military unit in the spring of 2024. The Prosecutor General’s Office specified that in March 2024, the contract soldier left for medical treatment from the area where he was performing a combat mission but did not return to his place of service.

According to law enforcement officials, while attempting to earn money quickly through Telegram channels, the man became a target for recruitment by Russian intelligence. Under the guidance of his handlers, he allegedly tracked the firing positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ air defense in Vinnytsia Oblast and sent the enemy precise locations of the units via messenger.

The SBU claims that the suspect later moved to Sumy Oblast, where he was tasked with spying on Defense Forces units. He rented an apartment in a town near the Russian border and posed as an “active duty military” to gain the trust of local residents. The man allegedly photographed military facilities, gathered information about Ukrainian defenders, and marked their coordinates on electronic maps for “reporting” to his Russian handler.

“This information was used by the enemy to prepare attacks on Defense Forces positions using guided aerial bombs, combat drones, and missile weapons,” the SBU stated.

Law enforcement officers reportedly detained the man at his place of residence. He faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property under articles on treason and desertion.

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