SBU detains UOC-MP cleric for directing "Iskander" missiles at Odesa

SBU Counterintelligence has detained a Russian military intelligence agent in Odesa. He turned out to be a priest of one of the churches of the local diocese of the UOC (MP), who coordinated a double strike on Odesa in March 2024. This was reported by UNN with reference to the Security Service of Ukraine.

Details

According to the investigation, the clergyman was recruited by the Russians after posting pro-Russian comments on Telegram channels. Based on his coordinates, the occupiers attacked the recreational zone of the port city with two "Iskander-M" ballistic missiles.

The first one hit residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure of the regional center where, according to the spotter, military personnel could have been located. The second strike occurred at the same location when emergency services arrived at the scene. After the fire damage, the agent "reported" to the Russian GRU on the consequences of the Russian air attack and "went underground" to avoid detection,

The cleric also "leaked" information to the occupiers about one of the electrical substations near Odesa, specifically regarding its protection system, and after the enemy strike on the energy facility, he informed Russian military intelligence about the consequences of the hit.

During searches, a smartphone was found and seized from the cleric, which he used to collect intelligence and maintain contact with the Russian GRU.

The detainee was notified of suspicion under Part 2 of Art. 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (high treason committed under martial law). The perpetrator is in custody without the right to bail. He faces life imprisonment with confiscation of property.

Reminder

In Kyiv, an 18-year-old Russian agent was detained for coordinating Russian strikes on the capital during a massive attack on May 24. The youth was notified of suspicion of high treason under martial law, and the court remanded him in custody.