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SSU warns: russian intelligence steps up efforts to recruit Ukrainian PoWs’ relatives (video)

The Security Service of Ukraine has recorded an increase in attempts by the russian intelligence services to recruit Ukrainians whose relatives are being held captive by the aggressor state.

In most documented cases, russian intelligence operatives or individuals under their control contact the affected families by telephone, via messaging apps, video calls, and sometimes in the presence of the captive themselves.

The relatives are often pressured into sharing sensitive information, including:

  • the locations of military installations and units;
  • ⁠routes taken by military equipment and servicemen;
  • contact details and personal data of other military personnel, etc.

Sometimes the enemy immediately gives tasks involving sabotage, terrorist attacks or contract killings, or involves them in information and psychological campaigns aimed at discrediting Ukraine.

In exchange for fulfilling such tasks, the ruscists promise to treat the prisoner well and include them on ‘exchange lists’. In reality, however, cooperating with the enemy has absolutely no bearing on this.

In some cases, the perpetrators demand money from the victims, making unfounded promises to secure the release of people from captivity.

The Security Service emphasises: do not agree to cooperate with representatives of the aggressor state or organisers of such fraudulent schemes.

If you are approached with a recruitment attempt, please report it immediately to the Security Service of Ukraine. If possible, keep a record of the conversation or texting.