That is according to the SBU, Ukrinform reports.
The investigation found that the task was carried out by a student of a local university who had been recruited by Russian agents. He came to the attention of Russian intelligence services while looking for easy ways to make money on Telegram.
Following instructions from his Russian handler, the agent made an improvised explosive device and equipped it with a mobile phone that allowed it to be detonated remotely.
The suspect was then supposed to study the commander's daily routine and movements in order to plant the explosive device and detonate it remotely when the serviceman approached the location.
It was also established that while preparing the assassination attempt, the agent agreed to carry out another task for Russia – setting fire to a truck.
For this purpose, the suspect purchased a flammable mixture from a store and coordinated the destruction of the vehicle with his handler in advance.
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SBU officers detained him while he was attempting to set the truck on fire.
During a search of the suspect, officers seized an improvised explosive device prepared for the planned attack, drugs and a smartphone containing evidence of his cooperation with the enemy.
SBU investigators formally charged the suspect under several articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine: Part 1 of Article 14 and Part 1 of Article 258 (preparation to commit a terrorist act); Part 1 of Article 263-1 (illegal manufacture of explosives or explosive devices); Part 1 of Article 263 (illegal handling of weapons, ammunition and explosives); Part 3 of Article 15 and Part 2 of Article 194 (attempted intentional destruction of or damage to property by arson); and Part 3 of Article 307 (illegal production, manufacture, acquisition, possession, transportation, shipment or sale of narcotic drugs).
The suspect is being held in custody. He faces up to 12 years in prison with confiscation of property.
Photo: SBU