Russian special services have intensified efforts to recruit Ukrainian citizens in countries of the European Union, which raises concerns for Ukrainian intelligence and law enforcement agencies
According to the press service of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate, Moscow is increasing its attempts to involve Ukrainians in illegal activities within Europe, employing various tactics and financial incentives for potential executors. As noted by the agency, Russian intelligence services select candidates among Ukrainian citizens, especially those in difficult life circumstances, including those from temporarily occupied territories. Often, these individuals are those caught in the trap of lawlessness, social decline, or simply left without means of subsistence. Malicious actors offer them monetary rewards in exchange for participation in carrying out various tasks that harm Ukraine’s interests and security. According to intelligence data, the goal of Russian special services is to involve Ukrainian citizens in organized surveillance of critical infrastructure objects, gather information for unlawful actions, and perform other tasks aimed at destabilizing the situation and undermining security within European countries. These actions are part of the “hybrid war” that Russia is waging against Ukraine, as well as an effort to weaken the European community and undermine its resilience. Ukrainian intelligence emphasizes that such recruitment is another tool of hybrid aggression aimed at destabilizing the situation, identifying weak links in the defense of European countries and Ukraine. They urge citizens to be vigilant and not to fall for provocations by foreign special services. If any Ukrainian or foreign citizen abroad receives suspicious offers, Ukrainian authorities advise to immediately contact the relevant police, national security service, or Ukrainian diplomatic missions. This will help quickly identify and prevent possible crimes and recruitment attempts that Russia seeks to carry out in the shadows and during a difficult time for Ukraine. The issue of informational and security stability remains a key aspect in countering any forms of hybrid aggression by the aggressor country. Ukraine is working to improve warning and response systems to such criminal activities in order to protect its citizens and maintain stability across the entire European space.