As a result of a special operation in Kharkiv region, the SSU exposed and dismantled another russian intelligence network. The traitors carried out a wide range of assignments of the russian military intelligence (better known as the GRU).

The exposed agents:

• collected and passed to the enemy the information on deployment of Ukrainian Defence Forces and military equipment;
• adjusted russia’s missile and artillery strikes on Ukrainian targets and reported on the consequences;
• ‘hunted’ for HIMARS.

According to available data, the organizers of the network are two residents of Kharkiv oblast. They formed a pool of informants that included their acquaintances and friends, who unwittingly assisted them in collecting intelligence.

Russian agents created groups in messenger apps, in which, under a cover of ‘everyday conversations’, they learned about the impact of strikes on the facilities, as well as about movement of Ukrainian military equipment, its numbers, type, etc.

Both organizers cooperated with russia for ideological reasons and because they were promised ‘high posts’ in case the region is occupied. They were also paid money for each portion of intelligence.

One of the spies moved to the temporarily occupied territory after russia began its full-scale invasion and continued subversive activities from there. He did this despite the fact that his son is a serviceman of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and is fighting against ruscists.

The SSU detained the agent who remained on Ukraine-controlled territory. During the searches, investigators found evidence of his cooperation with the enemy.

The detainee has been notified of suspicion of high treason (Articles 14.1, 111.2 of the CCU). Court has chosen custody as a measure of restraint.

The investigation is ongoing to identify all individuals involved in the network.

The SSU Counterintelligence carried out the operation jointly with investigators of the SSU Office in Kharkiv region under the procedural supervision of Kharkiv Region Prosecutor’s Office.