Ukraine Defense Intelligence: Russia recruits Ukrainians for illegal activities in Europe

Kremlin intelligence agencies are attempting to recruit Ukrainians for covert operations across Europe, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence (HUR) has reported.

“Russian intelligence services have intensified efforts to recruit Ukrainian citizens to involve them in unlawful activities within European Union countries,” the statement reads.

Potential recruits are offered financial rewards for engaging in illegal acts, conducting surveillance on critical infrastructure, and carrying out other tasks in favor of the aggressor state.

“These recruitment attempts mainly target Ukrainians from temporarily occupied territories who are in vulnerable situations,” the intelligence said.

Recruiting Ukrainians to carry out hostile operations in Europe is another tool in Russia’s hybrid war toolbox against Ukraine and the wider European community, the report reads.

“HUR urges that if anyone is approached by suspicious individuals, they should immediately report it to local law enforcement or Ukrainian diplomatic missions,” the statement reads.

Russia’s goal is not only to carry out subversive activities within the EU but also to damage Ukraine’s reputation among Western partners, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty quoted former Deputy Head of Ukraine’s Security Service Viktor Yahun as saying.

“They want to portray Ukrainians as potential terrorists, saboteurs, and criminals. Their sole aim is to reduce the support Ukrainians receive abroad,” Yahun said.