Russia was able to seize Chernobyl thanks to agents sent there in 2021 - Reuters

An investigation by the Reuters agency shared the statement.

Special agents managed to bribe officials and prepared the ground for a bloodless takeover of Chernobyl.

"A source with direct knowledge of the invasion plan said that in November 2021, Russia began sending undercover intelligence agents to Ukraine, tasked with establishing contacts with officials responsible for the security of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. The agents' goal was to ensure that there was no armed resistance after the arrival of Russian troops," said Reuters investigation.

In exchange for money, Ukrainian officials gave Russian spies information about Ukraine's military readiness in the north of Kyiv region.