Booby-Trapped Boot Insoles Meant For Russian Frontline Soldiers Allegedly Discovered by FSB

Explosive-laced boot insoles allegedly intended for Russian soldiers were discovered in Russia, according to the Daily Mail on March 24, citing statements from the country’s Federal Security Service (FSB).

The items were described by Russian authorities as modified “heated” insoles designed for cold-weather use. Officials said the shipment was disguised as humanitarian aid and was intended for delivery to Russian troops deployed in the war against Ukraine.

The FSB claimed the insoles contained small explosive charges and were designed to detonate when connected to a power source. Russian authorities stated that each device had an explosive yield equivalent to approximately 1.5 grams of TNT.

“The power of the concealed explosives in the insole pairs was 1.5 grams in TNT equivalent,” the FSB said. “Detonation occurs when the insoles are connected to a power source and is designed to sever a part of a serviceman’s limb when they are used during combat missions.”

According to the Daily Mail, Russian officials attributed the alleged operation to Ukrainian intelligence services. A foreign national born in 1994 was detained in connection with the case.

“A foreign national born in 1994 has been detained in Russia,” the FSB said. “He was involved in the smuggling of weapons to Russia from Poland through Belarus, organised by Ukrainian intelligence agencies.”

Authorities also said the individual, identified as a courier from Tajikistan, was linked to transporting the shipment.

Earlier, Russian drone operators reportedly received booby-trapped FPV goggles containing concealed explosive charges. The devices, identified as Skyzone Cobra X V4, were allegedly rigged to detonate upon activation and were discovered during an inspection of shipments labeled as humanitarian aid intended for Russian forces.

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