Russian mole in Ukrainian unit in Kharkiv Oblast is detained
A serviceman suspected of passing information about the frontline positions of Ukraine's defence forces to the Russians has been detained by law enforcement officers.
Source: Specialised Prosecutor's Office for Defence of the Central Region; Security Service of Ukraine; National Police
Details: Investigators say the 30-year-old serviceman made contact with a representative of Russia's secret services via Telegram and agreed to collect and pass on military information in exchange for money to the detriment of Ukraine's sovereignty, territorial integrity and defence capabilities.
In January 2026 the suspect repeatedly provided information about the locations of defence forces units on the front line in Kharkiv Oblast and was paid US$1,500. The prosecutors say he gathered information and took photos of relevant sites, which he sent to the Russian secret service representative. The payments were transferred to a cryptocurrency wallet.
The pre-trial investigation also found that in 2025 the serviceman 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. The investigators say he stored the items unlawfully at his place of residence and later sold them for cash.
The suspect was remanded in custody without bail. He faces a sentence of 15 years in prison or life imprisonment and confiscation of assets.
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