The SSU Counterintelligence has prevented a new series of terrorist attacks in Kharkiv. Following pre-emptive operations, an agent of russia’s federal security service preparing a series of bombings in the city has been detained.

The investigation revealed that the suspect had received instructions from russia on how to manufacture two improvised explosive devices. The bombs were to be made with 12 kg of explosive material, which the perpetrator was to manufacture himself, and equipped with mobile phones for remote activation.

The perpetrator had planned to plant the finished bombs in the city centre and report back to his FSB handler.

The ruscists intended to detonate the devices during rush hour, when the streets of Kharkiv would be at their busiest.

However, the SSU foiled the enemy’s plan at an early stage, arresting the agent in June 2026 in a rented flat ‘red-handed’. At that moment, he was engaged in a video call with a russian intelligence operative who was providing him with instructions on how to construct the IEDs.

According to the investigation, the FSB’s orders were carried out by an unemployed resident of the Kirovohrad region who had been recruited by the enemy. He came to their attention while looking for ‘easy money’ on Telegram channels.

After the recruitment, the aggressor state sent the agent to Kharkiv. There, he rented a flat and bought materials to make the IEDs.

Over 12 kg of explosives, components for improvised explosive devices and mobile phones, which he had changed to conceal his communications with the FSB, were seized from the detainee during searches.

SSU investigators have declared the detainee suspect under Articles 14.1, 258.2 of the CCU (preparation to commit a terrorist act, upon prior conspiracy, by a group).

Once the forensic examinations are completed, it is planned to bring additional charges against the suspect for the unlawful manufacture and handling of explosives.

The suspect is in custody without bail and faces up to 12 years’ imprisonment and confiscation of property.

The operation was carried out by the SSU Kharkiv Office under the procedural supervision of the regional Prosecutor’s Office.