Russia Foils Ukrainian Sabotage Group’s Terrorist Plans
Russian law enforcement has dismantled a Western-trained Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance group planning to carry out terrorist attacks on transport infrastructure in Russia’s Bryansk Region. According to the Federal Security Service (FSB), a shootout with the group resulted in three members being killed and three others, including the commander, captured.
The FSB stated that the group was supervised by Ukraine’s military intelligence (GUR) and received direct training from Western intelligence officers in Ukraine, Lithuania, Estonia, and Norway. A video of the interrogation released by the FSB showed the commander confirming that he had instructors from the UK, other European countries, and Canada.
During the operation, Russian authorities seized six US-made assault rifles with silencers, 16kg of Czech-made plastic explosives, a large number of NATO-type grenades and cartridges, and a communication device at the group’s camp in a wooded area. The arrested men confessed to being involved in explosions that damaged railway tracks in Belgorod Region in September 2024 and preparing for other attacks inside Russia.
The FSB reported that the operation was the result of coordination between the agency, the national guard (Rosgvardiya), and the Russian Interior Ministry in Bryansk Region. A criminal case related to preparing sabotage has been opened, and investigations have been launched under various criminal code articles, including smuggling of weapons and explosives, illegal crossing of the Russian border, and endangering the lives of law enforcement officers.
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides accusing each other of aggression and sabotage. The foiled terrorist plans have raised concerns about the safety and security of critical infrastructure in the region.
The Russian authorities have underscored the significance of this operation, emphasizing the importance of counter-terrorism efforts to prevent such threats. As investigations continue, more details are expected to emerge about the group’s plans and connections with Western intelligence agencies.
The international community remains vigilant, monitoring the situation closely, as the tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate. The successful operation by the Russian authorities has sent a clear message about their commitment to counter-terrorism and maintaining national security.
