SSU Detains Suppliers of SIM Cards for Russian Drones

Counterintelligence of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has detained two agents of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) in the Kyiv region who were supplying Ukrainian SIM cards to Russia for use in kamikaze drones.

According to the investigation, these SIM cards were used to enhance the communication and navigation systems of enemy UAVs that carry out attacks on Ukrainian territory.

One of the detainees is a former law enforcement officer. After receiving instructions from Russian intelligence services, the agents purchased SIM cards and then, with the help of accomplices in the European Union, smuggled them to the cities of Naberezhnye Chelny and Yelabuga in Tatarstan, where combat drones are manufactured.

In addition to supplying SIM cards, the agents were involved in recruiting the employees of Ukrainian mobile operators to obtain intelligence from within the companies. The SSU documented their activities and carried out the arrests.

During searches, the suspects were found in possession of smartphones containing evidence of contact with FSB handlers, as well as SIM cards prepared for shipment.

The detainees have been officially notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine – high treason committed under martial law. They face life imprisonment with confiscation of property.

Investigative actions are ongoing. The SSU is working to identify other members of the espionage network, including those operating within the territory of the European Union.