The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) announced the arrest of a high-ranking officer in the Special Operations Forces, accusing him of espionage for Russia’s GRU military intelligence. The officer, identified only as a lieutenant colonel, allegedly leaked critical military intelligence that Russian forces used to target Ukrainian troops.
The SBU’s investigation revealed that the officer had been recruited by the GRU before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. His espionage activities were reportedly “activated” in spring 2024.
The suspect used his access to sensitive military information to pass details about sabotage and reconnaissance missions conducted by Ukrainian forces in Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Crimea. This intelligence included planned routes, operations, and troop deployments, which Russia used to target Ukrainian Defense Forces on the front lines and in Russian-occupied areas.
During the officer’s arrest, the SBU confiscated communication devices, computers, and data storage equipment used in transmitting classified information.
The suspect is currently in custody and faces charges of high treason and espionage under Ukrainian law. These charges carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment and asset forfeiture.
The SBU highlighted that the officer’s betrayal put the lives of Ukrainian soldiers at risk. The agency worked closely with Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi during the counterintelligence investigation that led to the officer’s capture.
The arrest comes amid increasing efforts by Russia to infiltrate Ukrainian military and intelligence ranks. In August, the SBU dismantled a Russian intelligence cell involving former members of ex-President Viktor Yanukovych’s security team and a National Guard member. Another individual in Kharkiv was arrested for spying on Ukrainian air defense systems and troop positions.
The SBU has vowed to continue exposing and countering such threats, stating, “Special forces continue to fulfill tasks, destroy the enemy, and liberate Ukrainian land. All those who endanger our soldiers will be exposed and sent behind bars.”
