Russian Assassination Attempt on Zelensky Thwarted, Says Kyiv
The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has revealed its disruption of a Russian plot aimed at assassinating President Volodymyr Zelensky and several other high-ranking Ukrainian officials. This revelation comes with the arrest of two colonels from the Ukrainian government protection unit, who are suspected of involvement in the conspiracy.
According to the SBU, these individuals were part of a network of agents affiliated with the Russian State Security Service (FSB). Their objective allegedly included recruiting individuals from Zelensky’s security detail to carry out the abduction and subsequent assassination of the President.
Since the onset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, there have been numerous attempts to target President Zelensky. However, this particular plot is notable for its involvement of serving colonels within the Ukrainian security apparatus, suggesting a high level of infiltration.
Targets of the plot extended beyond President Zelensky to include other prominent figures such as military intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov and SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk. The plotters had reportedly planned to execute their attack before Orthodox Easter, employing tactics such as rockets, drones, and anti-tank grenades.
The SBU disclosed that one of the arrested officers had already acquired drones and anti-personnel mines, indicating advanced preparations for the planned assault. The intended timing of the attack, coinciding with Vladimir Putin’s inauguration for a fifth term as Russian president, suggests a symbolic gesture designed to appease the Kremlin.
While the operation was thwarted, SBU head Vasyl Malyuk emphasized the ongoing threat posed by Russian special services, cautioning against underestimating their capabilities. The arrested Ukrainian officials are currently detained on suspicion of treason and terrorism-related charges.
Further investigation revealed the involvement of three FSB operatives overseeing the plot, with one recruiter operating before the invasion in February 2022. Interrogations with suspects unveiled details of financial transactions, indicating a complex network of payments facilitated by the FSB.
The disrupted plot underscores the grave risks faced by President Zelensky amid ongoing hostilities. Recent events, including a Polish man’s arrest for alleged collaboration with Russian intelligence and Zelensky’s inclusion on a wanted list by the Russian interior ministry, underscore the heightened tensions between Ukraine and Russia.
The Ukrainian government has condemned these actions as desperate maneuvers by the Russian state apparatus, emphasizing international legal efforts to hold Vladimir Putin accountable for war crimes.
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