Russian man charged with treason for Ukraine – FSB
A Russian man who was reportedly photographing energy infrastructure in Moscow Region and sending the images to Kiev has been detained on suspicion of committing treason, the Federal Security Service (FSB) has said in a statement released on Sunday.
The 41-year-old was allegedly operating under instructions from a handler in Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), who had promised him a financial reward for gathering the information, the statement added.
The suspect and his handler were communicating via the Telegram messaging app, according to the statement. The man has been taken into custody, and the FSB has initiated a criminal case against him on charges of treason.
On Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed amendments to the Russian Criminal Code which impose harsher penalties for participation in armed rebellion, with organizers now facing life imprisonment. Additionally, individuals convicted of armed rebellion or terrorism are no longer eligible for early release from prison.
The amendments also introduce a prison sentence of up to 15 years for foreign nationals and stateless individuals who engage in activities that aid enemy efforts or undermine Russia’s national security. The changes also refine the wording of the article on state treason, particularly in cases involving defection.
