The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has officially reported (source: ssu.gov.ua) a massive campaign by Russian special services aimed at recruiting Ukrainian citizens. The enemy is operating under a “false flag” scheme, posing as SBU officers, National Police members, or other law enforcement representatives. This deceptive approach aims to manipulate vulnerable individuals into conducting acts of sabotage, arson, and other crimes against the state.
Russian agents leverage personal data stolen from e-commerce databases or gathered via open-source intelligence. They contact victims via messengers or phone calls, mimicking official terminology and even sending forged subpoenas for interrogation. The objective is to intimidate citizens by fabricating legal threats and then offering an escape route—provided the victim performs illegal tasks, such as tracking critical infrastructure or attacking military property.
The SBU emphasized that since the beginning of 2026, dozens of such infiltration attempts have been thwarted. These operations are part of a broader, persistent effort by the Kremlin to undermine Ukraine’s internal stability. Criminals often try to pressure victims into monitoring Ukrainian Defense Forces’ movements or gathering materials for explosives. By utilizing fear and psychological pressure, the Russian intelligence services hope to create a network of low-level assets within the country.
The agency reiterated that legitimate Ukrainian law enforcement officers do not issue orders or conduct official business through personal messaging apps, nor do they solicit money to close criminal cases. Any communication of this nature should be treated as an immediate red flag and reported to the authorities.
The SBU urges citizens to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with unknown callers who claim to represent state bodies. Public awareness is a vital defense mechanism against enemy espionage. As the war continues, Russia’s attempts to manipulate, spy on, and divide Ukrainian society remain ongoing, requiring constant caution from all citizens.