The Security Service of Ukraine and the National Police have documented new crimes committed by traitor Volodymyr Saldo, head of russia’s occupation administration on the left bank of Kherson region. The gauleiter is helping the occupiers build up russian troops in the southern region.

As established by the SSU Counterintelligence, Saldo organised the creation of a so-called ‘volunteer battalion’ to support the aggressor state.

To this end, in August 2023, he signed an ‘order’ providing for the financing of the occupation formation and the quartering of its members in the buildings of captured health resorts.

Saldo initiated a recruitment information campaign for the newly formed group through russia-controlled media resources.

The gauleiter also used his own Telegram channel to urge local residents to join the unit.

After the unit’s command structure was formed, it was transferred to the command of russia’s Southern military district to take part in the warfare against Ukraine’s Defence Forces.

The traitor was actively involved in organising the purchase of military equipment, provisions, medical supplies and equipment for the battalion.

Based on the evidence collected by the SSU Counterintelligence, Saldo was notified in absentia of suspicion under Article 260.1 of the CCU (creation of armed formations not provided for by law or participation in their activities).

Eleven representatives of the unit’s command were also declared suspects in absentia under the Articles on high treason and collaboration.

Efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice are underway.

The investigation was carried out by the SSU Office in Kherson region jointly with the National Police under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.