The Security Service of Ukraine has neutralized another network of Russian intelligence operatives in the Kyiv region. As a result of a comprehensive operation, two professional PR specialists were detained for conducting information sabotage against Ukraine on behalf of Russian intelligence services.
The investigation documented that the suspects primarily operated within the European Union's "media market," preparing and distributing materials aimed at discrediting Ukraine and justifying Russian aggression.
To avoid detection and blocking, they created over 200 websites that effectively duplicated Kremlin propaganda outlets and were registered under fake accounts.
Additionally, at the request of Russian clients, they carried out information campaigns in EU countries, including efforts to whitewash sanctioned top officials from Russia.
Among their tasks was shaping the media profiles of two key Kremlin financial figures:
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Igor Shuvalov, head of Russia’s state corporation Bank for Development and Foreign Economic Affairs.
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Andrey Kostin, chairman of the board of Moscow-based VTB Bank.
Both Russian bankers are close to Putin and involved in large-scale schemes financing Russia’s war of aggression.
According to the investigation, before 2022, these PR specialists handled commercial contracts from Russia. After the full-scale invasion, a former employer in Russia contacted them remotely and offered them cooperation with the occupation forces.
During searches, law enforcement seized computer equipment and mobile phones containing evidence of their crimes.
SSU investigators have charged them under Article 111, Part 2 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code (high treason committed under martial law).
The suspects remain in custody without the right to bail and face a life sentence with confiscation of property.
