Ukraine says it stopped a Russian plot to kidnap and kill President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Here are the key points:
- Two Ukrainian security officers were arrested for the assassination attempt
- The plan was timed for Russia’s inauguration as a “present” for Putin
- Ukraine’s security service caught the agents admitting to the plot on video
Do you want to learn more about this dangerous plot against Ukraine’s leader?
The Russian Plot
Ukraine Says Russian Agents Planned Attack
According to Ukraine’s intelligence agency, two of its colonels were working as Russian spies. The agents reportedly:
- Planned to leak Zelenskyy’s locations and security details to Moscow
- Wanted Russian missiles to strike where Zelenskyy was staying
- Stole weapons like drones, mines and explosives to use in the attack
The two men were allegedly hired and paid large sums of cash by Russia before the full-scale invasion during meetings in other European countries.
“Plot Really Stands Out”
“Assassination plots against President Zelenskyy are common since the invasion when Russian forces tried to kill him in Kyiv,” said BBC correspondent James Waterhouse. “But this alleged plan really stands out.”
If convicted, the Ukrainian agents could face life in prison for plotting against their president for Russia.
Protecting Zelenskyy
Heavy Security for Ukraine’s Wartime Leader
Zelenskyy remains incredibly well-guarded despite the risks. He has considerable armed security details and travels in low-flying helicopters when visiting front-line areas.
“This is a president determined to stay, despite offers to leave Ukraine early in the invasion,” Waterhouse stated. “With martial law and elections on hold, he seems intent on mobilizing more men to fight for now.”
Facing Pressures as War Continues
While the initial invasion period has passed, Zelenskyy now faces domestic pressures as Ukraine’s wartime leader is trying to turn around battles that are currently not going their way.
The alleged Russian assassination plot shows the grave dangers Zelenskyy continues to face while refusing to abandon his country and people during the conflict.
Conclusion
Ukraine claims it thwarted a Russian plan to kidnap or kill its president as a twisted present for Putin’s inauguration. While the threat was stopped, the alleged involvement of Ukrainian agents highlights how far Russia may go to target Zelenskyy.
Can Ukraine keep its president safe as the war rages on?
