SBU exposes Telegram channel admin collaborating with Russia’s FSB
Source: SBU
Ukraine’s Security Service, the SBU, said it has uncovered evidence linking the administrator of a Telegram channel for draft dodgers to collobaration with Russia’s FSB intelligence agency.
The 52-year-old man, who was detained in August 2024 while attempting to cross the Dnipro River near the Belarusian border to flee to Russia, has turned out to be a former member of the banned pro-Russian political party “Derzhava.” The investigation found that FSB had recruited him to help disrupt Ukraine’s mobilization campaign.
Acting as an administrator of several Telegram channels, the suspect offered detailed instructions to military-age men on avoiding conscription. His posts covered such issues as escape routes to Russia, exposing details on the work of border checkpoints, and logistical support for crossing into Russia.
Once in Russia, the suspect planned to continue his in FSB-led online campaign smearing Ukrainian institutions. The man now faces charges under Article 111, Part 2 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code for high treason during wartime. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment with confiscation of property.
The operation was carried out by the SBU in Chernihiv Oblast in cooperation with the State Border Guard Service.
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