The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has issued a stark warning to citizens, urging maximum vigilance during the upcoming Easter holidays. Despite the Kremlin’s public declarations of a temporary ceasefire, Russian intelligence agencies are actively continuing their attempts to destabilize the internal situation in Ukraine through provocations, psychological operations, and potential terrorist attacks.
According to an official statement released by the SBU, enemy intelligence is actively working to orchestrate information-psychological special operations (PsyOps) and direct acts of sabotage. A significant part of Russia’s strategy involves utilizing its covert network to artificially incite conflicts among different religious communities and denominations within Ukraine during this spiritually significant time.
“Despite the statements of the aggressor country about a so-called ‘ceasefire’, enemy special services do not abandon their plans. They continue to work against Ukraine, resorting to provocations, terrorist acts, and sabotage,” the SBU stated. Furthermore, Ukrainian counterintelligence is currently operating around the clock to thwart Russian efforts to recruit local citizens. These recruits are typically sought after to organize localized terror attacks or to act as spotters to adjust missile and drone strikes on civilian infrastructure. The SBU emphasized that crowded areas and civilian facilities remain the primary targets for the occupying forces.
While law enforcement agencies have transitioned to an enhanced operational mode to counter these severe threats, the SBU stresses that public awareness is a critical component of national security. Citizens are strongly advised to adhere to the following safety guidelines during the Easter period:
- Exercise heightened caution when attending mass gatherings, church services, or public events.
- Refrain from engaging in any provocations or illegal activities instigated by third parties.
- Promptly report any suspicious items, unattended packages, or individuals exhibiting threatening behavior to the police.
- Immediately notify authorities if approached by strangers offering “easy money” in exchange for favors or information.
- Strictly observe air raid sirens and proceed to designated bomb shelters without delay.
- Adhere to the mandatory curfew hours established in respective regions.
The SBU reminds the public that a dedicated, toll-free hotline (1516) is available 24/7 to report any suspicious activities.
The warning comes in the wake of a brief Easter “ceasefire” announced by Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to the Kremlin’s maneuver by pointing out the hypocrisy of the statement. He reminded the international community that Ukraine had previously proposed an Easter truce, adding that Russia now has the opportunity to cease its strikes entirely, rather than just implementing a temporary, politically motivated pause.