Ukrainian special services have successfully conducted an operation to neutralize a group of Russian mercenaries. The hostile agents were planning a series of assassinations targeting prominent Ukrainian figures, including military personnel, intelligence officers, and media representatives.
As reported by "Hvylya", President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the operation during his address summarizing the 1,459th day of the war.
The Head of State highlighted the joint efforts of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), the National Police, and the Prosecutor General's Office. According to the President, law enforcement managed to prevent crimes against individuals with "quite high-profile names." Oleksandr Poklad reported on the details of the operation.
"We managed to neutralize Russian mercenaries who were preparing assassination attempts on our citizens. This is another front of constant defense of Ukraine's security. They were preparing attempts against Ukrainian military personnel, intelligence officers, and media representatives," Zelensky emphasized.
The President also focused on the diplomatic front, holding talks with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The key topic was preparation for the next round of negotiations. Zelensky stressed that the previous meeting in Geneva demonstrated to the American side that it is the Russian position blocking any results.
Additionally, Ukraine has increased sanctions pressure on the aggressor. Restrictions have been imposed on 225 captains of vessels transporting Russian oil. Kyiv is insisting that the European Union ban maritime services for ships used by the Russian Federation in its next sanctions package.
"Europe should come to this decision. This is something that could become a significant incentive from Europe for Russia to finally move from war to diplomacy," the President summarized.
