Ukrainian authorities have dismantled a Russian military intelligence network in Kyiv that was preparing contract killings of Defense Forces commanders and public figures.
The operation was carried out under the supervision of the Kyiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office. Security services said the suspects were detained just before carrying out an assassination.
Investigators said on Tuesday that the group was coordinated by a serving officer of Russia’s General Staff, who selected targets, assigned roles, and managed the operation.
The network allegedly included four people: a private security company head, a law enforcement officer, a former convict, and a woman responsible for transport.
One member was tasked with carrying out the killings, while others handled logistics, surveillance, and cover. Another reportedly accessed restricted databases and passed information to Russian handlers.
To avoid detection, the group used vehicles with flashing lights, posing as security personnel. Weapons and ammunition were taken from caches in the Kyiv and Cherkasy regions. The suspects also prepared attacks using explosives placed under vehicles.
The group was detained on the eve of an attempted killing of a commander of a volunteer formation in Kyiv. During searches, authorities seized weapons, phones, SIM cards, and other evidence.
All suspects have been charged with state treason, attempted contract murder by an organized group, and illegal handling of classified information.
Investigators said the organizers are based in Russia and are also being probed for attempted sabotage.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.