The Security Service of Ukraine, with support from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has dismantled a Russian military intelligence (GRU) spy network operating in the Zaporizhzhia region.
According to investigators, the network was coordinated by a local cleric affiliated with the UOC (MP). The priest allegedly used sermons to recruit pro-Russian residents, justifying Russia’s aggression and war crimes, and later identified individuals suitable for espionage activities on behalf of Russian intelligence.
The operation began after authorities detained a Russian spotter in Zaporizhzhia, who provided testimony implicating the cleric. Investigators determined that the priest also recruited a 41-year-old Ukrainian conscript, who followed Russian instructions to report on the disposition, strength, and weaponry of Ukrainian units in the Zaporizhzhia sector. The soldier’s reports included details about his own battalion, neighboring units, and photocopies of documents concerning new Ukrainian military formations at the front.
Further investigation revealed that the priest and soldier coordinated with a senior GRU agent from the 316th Intelligence Center—a former law enforcement officer from Zaporizhzhia who had fled to temporarily occupied territory to work for Russia.
During searches, authorities seized mobile phones, computers, and other equipment containing evidence of the network’s activities. The cleric was also found in possession of a Russian passport, Kalashnikov ammunition, and cold weapons.
Both detainees have been charged under multiple articles of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, including high treason during martial law, encroachment on Ukraine’s territorial integrity, actions aimed at overthrowing the constitutional order, justification of Russian aggression, and violation of citizens’ equality based on race, nationality, or religion. They remain in custody.
The SSU confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and hold accountable all individuals involved in the GRU network. The special operation was conducted under the procedural guidance of the Office of the Prosecutor General of Ukraine.
