Russian "mole" detained in Ukrainian unit in Kharkiv Oblast

Law enforcement officers have detained a servicemember suspected of passing information about the frontline positions of Ukraine's defence forces to the Russians.

Source: Specialised Prosecutor's Office in the Field of Defence of the Central Region; Security Service of Ukraine; National Police

Details: Investigators say a 30-year-old servicemember established contact via Telegram with a representative of Russia's secret services and, in exchange for money, agreed to collect and pass on military information to the detriment of Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and defence capabilities.

The investigation states that in January 2026 the suspect repeatedly provided information about the locations of defence forces units on the front line in Kharkiv Oblast for US$1,500. Prosecutors say he gathered the information and took photos of relevant sites before sending the materials to the Russian secret service representative. The payments were allegedly transferred to a cryptocurrency wallet.

The pre-trial investigation also found that in 2025 the servicemember illegally obtained ammunition and explosive substances without the required permit, including hand grenades, plastic explosives, propellant powder and more than 1,200 rounds of small-arms ammunition. Investigators say he stored the items unlawfully at his place of residence and later sold them for cash.

A court has remanded the suspect in custody without the right to bail. He faces a possible sentence of 15 years in prison or life imprisonment, with confiscation of property.

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