Russian GRU agent detained in Kharkiv for using cleaning services to scout military positions

The Security Service  (SBU) reported the information.

The suspect is a 63-year-old local unemployed woman who had direct contact with a career officer of the Russian special services, whose identity was confirmed by SBU counterintelligence.

Following instructions from the Main Directorate of the Russian General Staff (GRU), she was gathering coordinates for targeting Ukrainian Defense Forces units engaged in combat in the Kharkiv area.

“To gather intelligence, the agent tried to gain the trust of Ukrainian defenders by having 'heart-to-heart' conversations with them. She also offered to help the military with domestic issues, including cleaning their temporary housing, for a nominal fee,” the statement said.

SBU investigators served her a notice of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (high treason committed under martial law). The woman faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property.

Note: According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime and shall not be subjected to criminal punishment until his or her guilt is proved in accordance with the law and established by a court verdict of guilty.

• Earlier, law enforcement officers detained five people suspected of arson in Kyiv, Vinnytsia and Sumy regions. The suspects could face life in prison.