Security Service of Ukraine exposes and charges 12 accomplices linked to pro-Russian network led by Medvedchuk
Thanks to decisive actions by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the activities of 12 individuals involved in an organized criminal group known as ‘Druhaia Ukraina’ have been uncovered and documented.
These persons, acting under orders from Russian intelligence agencies and directly led by the former Member of Parliament and exile Viktor Medvedchuk, carried out extensive information operations aimed against Ukraine’s security and international reputation.
Investigations revealed that the perpetrators collaborated with Russia’s FSB and external intelligence services, with one of the key figures, Kyrylo Molchanov, facing charges for cooperation with foreign intelligence and engaging in disinformation campaigns.
It was established that Molchanov not only worked for Russian intelligence agencies but also maintained contacts with high-ranking FSB officials, including Lieutenant General Gёorgiy Grishaev.
Under instructions from occupying forces, he organized and promoted anti-Ukrainian content to discredit Ukraine internationally and stir unrest domestically.
Their operations included orchestrating pro-Russian protests within the European Union, calling for reduced international support for Ukraine, and disseminating false claims via controlled Telegram channels, YouTube, and Kremlin-backed outlets such as ‘Voice of Europe’, which was later subjected to EU sanctions.
All members of this criminal network, including its leaders, have been detained and formally charged with crimes such as treason, incitement of ethnic hatred, calls for violent regime change, and justifying Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.
Medvedchuk personally coordinated and financed this activity, establishing ties with Putin’s administration and Russian government structures.
Previously, Kyrylo Molchanov was detained in Poland but is now held in Kyiv’s pre-trial detention center.
This case represents the first instance during the ongoing full-scale invasion when a Russian agent working against Ukraine in the informational sphere was extradited to our country.
The case highlights Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to combat foreign subversion and protect national security.