The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has detained an agent of the Russian military intelligence service (GRU) in the Chernihiv region, accusing him of conducting espionage activities against Ukraine’s Defence Forces near the northern border.
According to the SSU, the 42-year-old suspect, a resident of the region and currently unemployed, was recruited via Telegram channels while seeking financial gain. He is alleged to have gathered and transmitted the coordinates of Ukrainian military positions to Russian handlers.
On instructions from the GRU, the agent attempted to identify local checkpoints, command and observation posts, logistics centres, and main routes used by military transport. The SSU reports that he walked through the border area and covertly recorded locations of Ukrainian troops using his mobile phone.
Counterintelligence operatives tracked and documented his actions before detaining him. During a search, investigators seized the mobile device used to communicate with the Russian side.
The SSU confirmed that the suspect has been served with a notice of suspicion under Article 111.2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, high treason committed under martial law. If convicted, he faces a life sentence with confiscation of property.
The operation was conducted by the SSU’s regional office in Chernihiv under the procedural supervision of the Chernihiv Regional Prosecutor’s Office. Measures have also been taken to secure the military locations targeted by the suspect.
