Ukrainian Authorities Detain Woman Allegedly Involved in Plot to Assassinate Zelensky

Ukraine's security service has announced the arrest of a woman who allegedly plotted to assassinate Russian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

REUTERS

The security service stated that she had attempted to gather information on Zelensky's travel plans before his visit to the flood-affected region of Mykolaiv in June.

Ukraine has accused individuals in the region who are perceived to be pro-Russian of providing information to aid Moscow's military efforts.

Zelensky confirmed that he had been informed about the arrest, stating that the head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) had updated him on the "fight against traitors."

Security Service of Ukraine (SBU)

During a visit to Mykolaiv in June to assess the damage caused by the collapse of the Kakhovka dam, Zelensky had been made aware of the security threat, prompting additional security measures.

The SBU alleges that Russia was planning a significant airstrike in the Mykolaiv region, and the arrested suspect was allegedly trying to provide information about the locations of electronic warfare systems and ammunition warehouses that could be targeted by the Russian military.

According to the SBU, the suspect resides in the small town of Ochakiv, which Zelensky visited in July. She reportedly worked in a shop within a military base there.

The security forces did not arrest the suspect at the time of Zelensky's visit but took precautions to prevent any attack on the Ukrainian president. After the visit, agents continued to monitor her actions and the assignments she allegedly received from Russia, according to the SBU.

The statement further alleges that the suspect had driven around the area and had taken photos and videos of Ukrainian military facilities.

The suspect may be charged with unauthorized information sharing on weapons and troops' movements. In case of conviction, she might be subject to a potential prison term lasting up to 12 years.

Ukrainian security forces have previously arrested individuals they allege to be "Russian agents" believed to be assisting in locating targets for Russian missiles.