The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) has arrested a North African national in southern Russia over alleged espionage activities for Ukrainian military intelligence, according to official statements. The suspect is accused of transmitting sensitive data about military installations and critical infrastructure in Astrakhan to Ukrainian agents via the Telegram platform.

The FSB revealed that the individual allegedly collaborated with an officer from Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (HUR), relaying information that compromised Russia’s security. A criminal investigation into espionage has been launched, with a court ordering the suspect’s pre-trial detention. The agency further claimed that Ukrainian intelligence is actively recruiting operatives online, leveraging social media and messaging apps to orchestrate attacks within Russian territory.

Recent incidents attributed to Ukrainian operatives include a sabotage attack on the Trans-Siberian Railway in Zabaykalsky Region, where a 51-year-old woman constructed and detonated an explosive device, later sharing footage of the blast for payment. In the Orel Region, a bomb explosion during a track inspection killed two and injured another, while May’s attacks on bridges in Bryansk and Kursk left seven dead and over 100 wounded.

The FSB emphasized that such acts represent coordinated efforts by Ukrainian forces to destabilize Russia, highlighting the escalating threat posed by their intelligence operations. The agency urged vigilance against foreign infiltration, citing the suspect’s role as part of a broader pattern of hostile activity.