SBU detains GRU agent planning terrorist attack in Kharkiv region

SBU detains GRU agent planning to blow up gas pipeline in Kharkiv region

The Security Service of Ukraine reported the detention of an agent of the Russian GRU, who was preparing terrorist attack against energy infrastructure in eastern Ukraine.

According to the investigation, the detainee is Alexander Bondarenko, a resident of Kharkiv region, who came to the attention of the Russian special services through anti-Ukrainian publications in Telegram. He was later recruited by representatives of Russian military intelligence.

Preparing a sabotage

After receiving instructions from the curators, the agent manufactured an improvised explosive device in his parents' house in the Berestyn district of Kharkiv region.

He planned to plant the explosives near a nodal section of gas lines, that provide heat supply in Kharkiv and Poltava regions. This facility is of strategic importance for regional energy security.

Detention

SBU officers detected the suspect in time and detained him at the final stage of preparation of the terrorist attack - during the assembly of the bomb.

Law enforcers seized explosive components, detonators and means of communication with Russian curators. The detainee was served a notice of suspicion under the article on high treason and preparation of a terrorist act. He faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property.