The Case of Inna Kardash
On February 16, 2026, the Kyiv Court of Appeal upheld the pre-trial detention of Belarusian journalist Inna Kardash, who is suspected of spying for the Belarusian KGB. She was detained in late January 2026. According to the investigation, she had been cooperating with Belarusian special services since 2015. From 2020 onward, Kardash conducted intelligence activities in Ukraine under the cover of journalism, including while working at the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, which is part of Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR).
Her arrest was carried out by Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) and the GUR. Inna Kardash was 35 years old at the time of her detention and had been residing in Ukraine since 2019. The investigation alleges that from November 21 to December 19, 2025, the journalist collected information using methods such as photographing documents and making audio recordings of conversations. The gathered information reportedly contained official data constituting a state secret in the spheres of national security and law enforcement.
Case Implications
The journalist faces charges of high treason or espionage, which could result in a lengthy prison sentence. The pre-trial investigation is ongoing, with the next steps involving the completion of forensic examinations on seized equipment. Kardash's lawyers assert the case is politically motivated, adding further strain to an already tense situation. This case highlights the persistent security challenges Ukraine faces from neighboring states aligned with Russia.
This incident reflects the heightened tensions between Ukraine and Belarus, particularly regarding the activities of their respective intelligence services. Given the historical context and political relations, the situation is especially sensitive, as journalism can sometimes serve as a cover for other activities. The ongoing developments in the Inna Kardash case could have significant consequences not only for her personally but also for the broader relationship between Ukraine and Belarus.