A Russian woman in Russia's Yaroslavl region is charged with collecting intelligence to direct drone strikes for the city of Kiev.
A woman in Russia's Yaroslavl Region is under investigation for terrorism following a deal to help Ukraine launch drone attacks deep inside the country, the Russian security service, the FSB, announced on Tuesday.
The suspect is said to be in her mid-30s and lives in the town of Uglich, about 200 km north of Moscow. The FSB said that she collected intelligence about critical infrastructure in the region on behalf of Ukraine special services, which she knew would be used for attempted acts of terrorism.
Footage released by the FSB includes screenshots of messages the woman allegedly exchanged with her Ukrainian handlers in late May.
One of her texts expresses the hope that Ukrainian drones would penetrate deep inside Russia to stir anti-government sentiment. In another one, the suspect apparently refused to target conscription centers and railroads, but agreed to collect intelligence on hydropower plants. The handler said he would blow them all up. The investigation also involved some surveillance footage of the suspect, including footage of her filming the Uglich Hydroelectric Station on the Volga River.
If convicted, the women faces up to 20 years in prison for terrorism.
The FSB routinely reports catching individuals suspected of doing various illegal missions on the behalf of Kiev. A high-profile case has surfaced last week that involved a neo-Nazi group, members of which were accused of preparing assassinations of RT editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan and another prominent journalist, Ksenia Sobchak.
14 Comments
Eric Cartman
Given the political nature of the accusation, an independent investigation should be conducted to ensure a fair trial and to verify the authenticity of the evidence presented by the FSB.
Stan Marsh
If the woman has no prior criminal record or involvement in terrorist activities, it raises doubts about her sudden involvement in directing drone strikes. It is important to consider her background and previous behavior before assuming her guilt.
Eric Cartman
If the woman did indeed collect intelligence with the intention of directing drone strikes, it poses a significant threat to Russia's national security. Swift action is necessary to protect the country and its citizens.
Stan Marsh
It is possible that the woman was coerced or manipulated into collecting intelligence for Ukraine. Without understanding the woman's background and motive, it is premature to assume her guilt and label her as a terrorist.
Katchuka
In the age of digital misinformation, it is crucial to approach such allegations with skepticism. False information and propaganda have been used to shape public opinion in the past, and this case could be no exception.
Noir Black
The woman's motive for allegedly agreeing to help Ukraine launch drone attacks is not clear. Without a clear motive, it is hard to believe that she willingly participated in such activities.
Madagascar
Taking such cases seriously and initiating investigations is a wise precautionary measure to prevent potential acts of terrorism. It demonstrates a commitment to safeguarding national security.
Katchuka
The FSB's announcement is based on screenshots and surveillance footage, which may not be enough to prove the woman's involvement in directing drone strikes for Kiev.
Muchacha
The FSB's announcement may be politically motivated, aimed at portraying Ukraine as a threat and justifying Russia's actions in the region. It is important to consider the political context and potential biases before accepting the accusations.
ZmeeLove
The FSB's statement lacks specific information about the alleged drone attacks and their potential targets. Without concrete details, it is difficult to assess the seriousness of the woman's actions and the potential harm caused.
Mariposa
Without further investigation, it is difficult to confirm the authenticity of the alleged text messages exchanged between the woman and her Ukrainian handlers. It is possible that they could have been fabricated or manipulated.
Comandante
The FSB has a history of successfully identifying and apprehending individuals suspected of terrorism or illegal activities. Their experience and expertise lend credibility to their accusations.
Habibi
I quite agree with the author
Katchuka
I'm not good enough at the detailed aspects of the matter