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Ukraine Exposes Russian-Directed Plot Targeting Killings and Sabotage Across Europe
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Ukrainian prosecutors, in coordination with the National Police and law enforcement agencies from several countries, have uncovered a network allegedly operating under the direction of Russian intelligence services that was preparing a series of contract killings and acts of sabotage across the European Union.
This was reported by the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine on April 27.
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According to the investigation, the operation had been active since August 2024, with Russian intelligence coordinating activities from abroad through intermediaries. The network’s primary objective was to organize violent crimes within EU member states.
One of the key targets was in Lithuania, where the group prepared contract killings. Suspects conducted prolonged surveillance of two individuals: a Russian opposition activist granted political asylum in Lithuania and a Lithuanian citizen known for supporting Ukraine. The group collected detailed information on their residences, daily routines, and movement patterns in preparation for a potential attack.
The network reportedly involved individuals from multiple countries, including Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Georgia, Latvia, Moldova, and Greece. Participants carried out various roles, ranging from surveillance and recruitment of perpetrators to financing, logistics, and coordination.
According to investigators, potential attackers were recruited through intermediaries, including individuals with criminal backgrounds. Funding was channeled through networks linked to Russian intelligence, using forged documents and accounts opened under false identities to conceal the origin of the funds.
Authorities said a planned assassination attempt in Lithuania was successfully prevented. Some suspects were detained, while others withdrew from participation. One individual was arrested directly while preparing to carry out the attack.
Further analysis of seized mobile devices revealed that the network’s activities extended across several European countries and included plans for sabotage and provocations. In one EU state, operatives gathered intelligence on military facilities and equipment intended for delivery to Ukraine. In another, they explored scenarios involving arson attacks on infrastructure. Sabotage activities were also identified at a military enterprise.
Investigators also established that members of the group had considered carrying out violent acts against military personnel and public figures in Ukraine.
As part of the international operation, law enforcement agencies conducted arrests and searches across multiple EU countries. Some suspects have already been transferred to Lithuania.
Lithuanian authorities have charged 13 individuals in connection with the case. Nine have been detained, while European arrest warrants have been issued for four others. Three suspects apprehended abroad have already been extradited to Lithuania, with procedures ongoing for two additional individuals.
The case also reflects a broader pattern of growing concern across Europe over individuals suspected of links to Russian intelligence networks.
In a separate development, former British police officer Mark Bullen became the first native-born UK citizen to be stripped of his passport over alleged ties to Russia. The 45-year-old, who is currently residing in Russia, was deprived of his citizenship on national security grounds following a decision by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
According to an October letter cited by Bullen, the move was taken on the basis that revoking his nationality was “conducive to the public good.” The Home Secretary stated that the evidence underpinning the decision would remain classified due to national security considerations.
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