Published: 09:45, December 27, 2024
Russian security agency says foiled Ukraine plots to kill defense officials
By Xinhua
People walk on the edge of Red Square outside the Kremlin during a heavy snowfall in Moscow on Feb 7, 2024. (PHOTO / AFP)

MOSCOW - The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has thwarted multiple assassination plots coordinated by Ukrainian special services against high-ranking Russian military officials, it said in a statement Thursday.

Four Russian citizens linked to the assassination plots against the officials and their families were detained, the FSB said.

READ MORE: Russia strikes energy facilities across Ukraine

One of the citizens, recruited by Ukrainian intelligence services, arrived in Moscow in November 2024 to carry out a terrorist act by planting an explosive device disguised as a power bank under the car of a high-ranking defense official.

Another Moscow resident conducted surveillance on senior defense ministry personnel and their families. Two other Russian citizens were detained for their involvement in a plot to deliver an explosive device disguised as a folder with documents.

ALSO READ: Russia sentences US man to 15 years in jail for espionage

Criminal cases have been opened against the detainees, who were charged with the "illegal circulation of explosives and explosive devices", the "preparation of terrorist acts", and "high treason", which are offenses punishable by life imprisonment under Russian law.