Kyiv Agent of Russia Arrested for Planning Strike on Defense Sites

The SBU reported that the woman was working as a saleswoman in a local retail chain and used her position to collect sensitive information. Specifically, she relayed coordinates of key infrastructure points in Kyiv to Russian intelligence.

Her activities reportedly included reconnaissance missions near thermal power plants (TECs), which are crucial to the city's energy supply. The suspect allegedly blended her intelligence missions into routine activities, posing as a caring mother while exploring target areas with her young daughter.

During these outings, she carefully documented locations of Ukrainian defense and energy facilities, marking coordinates on Google Maps and taking photographs to provide to her Russian handlers. This intelligence-gathering was part of a broader scheme to prepare for potential rocket attacks against these strategic assets.

The SBU was able to track her movements and ultimately apprehended her at her home in the Obolon district. Investigators confirmed that she was recruited by the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) as she sought quick earnings through Telegram channels.

In exchange for the promise of paid work, she willingly began surveilling the city to assist in directing renewed assaults on Kyiv's TECs and defense enterprises. The authorities also seized her smartphone and various SIM cards during the arrest, which she used to communicate with her Russian curator.

The woman has been charged under Article 111 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which pertains to high treason committed during a state of war. Currently, she is being held without bail, facing a potential life sentence with asset forfeiture.

This arrest is part of ongoing efforts by the SBU to thwart espionage activities and protect Ukraine’s critical infrastructure amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.