A high-profile incident involving a minor took place in Kharkiv, where, according to Ukrainian security services, a underage girl was used by Russian special services in their subversive and destructive operations against Ukraine’s defense sector
According to official information provided by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Kharkiv regional prosecutor’s office, law enforcement investigators uncovered a 15-year-old resident of the city, suspected of setting fire to two military vehicles of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The act is believed to have caused significant damage to military equipment and posed a threat to national security. Based on the evidence collected, by no later than July 31, 2024, the girl from Kharkiv, then still a minor, was influenced by representatives of Russia through the Telegram messenger app. Testimonies from investigators indicate that she received an offer and monetary compensation for committing criminal acts—specifically, setting fire to official military vehicles of the Ukrainian Army. The entire process was carefully recorded by the perpetrator herself: the minor poured flammable liquid onto the hoods and front sections of a jeep and a pickup truck and then set them ablaze. She then sent videos with proof of her actions to her Russian curator to confirm that the task was completed. The crime occurred in the early hours of August 5 and caused a significant public outcry due to its seriousness. Fortunately, no one was injured during the arson, but the military vehicles sustained substantial damage and were out of service for a prolonged period. Such destruction could have led to dangerous consequences for military operations and security measures in the city, according to the SBU press service. Regarding motives and circumstances, the suspect has been charged with the crime under Part 2 of Article 194 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine—deliberate destruction or damage to property through arson. This offense can carry a penalty of up to 10 years of imprisonment. Additionally, considering signs of obstructing the lawful activities of military and other state agencies (Part 1 of Article 114-1 of the Criminal Code), law enforcement officials are also exploring other possible charges against the minor. Due to her young age (she is only 15 years old), Ukrainian law does not provide for full criminal liability for minors in cases of such offenses. Currently, authorities are preparing a petition to the court to apply educational measures or other forms of corrective influence to the girl, which would allow avoiding prosecution under adult criminal law while still holding her accountable for the committed offense. Overall, this case is actively discussed in society and the media, emphasizing the importance of strengthening efforts to prevent the involvement of minors in criminal activities and combating Russian propaganda and recruitment of youth. The authorities are doing everything possible to clarify all circumstances and prevent similar incidents in the future, as arson of military equipment and the involvement of minors in provocative actions pose a serious threat to national security and regional stability.