Ukrainian Security Service Dismantles Russian Spy Network Operating Through Religious Groups

Russian Federation Spy Network Uncovered

According to Главком: The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has exposed and dismantled a Russian intelligence network that was using religious communities as a cover to prepare attacks within the country. This development was reported by the Commander-in-Chief, referencing a statement from the President of Ukraine near the end of the 1489th day of the war. The head of state received a briefing from Major General Yevhen Khmar, which detailed the SBU's successful operations against the occupying forces.

The President also heard a report from Major General Oleksandr Poklad on the neutralization of Russian influence networks that were functioning through religious congregations. These operations prevented planned crimes, as Russian agents were actively preparing attacks. As a result, a series of arrests were made.

'The work to counter the enemy's agent networks is continuous. In particular, today there was a report on the liquidation of precisely such networks of Russian influence, which operated through religious communities. I am grateful to the SBU for this protection of our people.' – Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

SBU Operations in Zaporizhzhia

In August 2025, the SBU's military counterintelligence, with support from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, neutralized an agent network of Russian military intelligence (GRU) operating in Zaporizhzhia. The hostile cell was coordinated by the rector of a local church belonging to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the Moscow Patriarchate (UOC-MP). This cleric identified pro-Russian individuals during his sermons, where he justified the armed aggression of the Russian Federation, and subsequently recruited potential candidates for the agent apparatus.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of the SBU's activity in targeting Russian oil resources and noted:

'I am grateful to our warriors for their precision. The Russian war machine must not gain additional resources from the geopolitical situation.' – Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The SBU continues its work to eliminate threats that may emanate from Russian aggressors on Ukrainian territory.

This exposure of the spy network underscores Ukraine's ongoing struggle against Russian influence, particularly within institutions like religious communities that can be exploited for destructive purposes. This operation highlights the proactive role of Ukrainian security forces in safeguarding national security and countering threats from the aggressor state. The SBU remains focused on neutralizing potential dangers and reducing Russia's capacity for subversive activities within the country. The use of religious cover by intelligence operatives is a known tactic in hybrid warfare, aiming to exploit social divisions.

In a related development, the SBU continues to intensify its efforts against Russian espionage activities, as evidenced by their recent operation in the Donetsk region. There, a Russian spotter was apprehended for identifying defense targets for potential strikes. This incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by such networks and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding national security. For more details on this operation, see our coverage of the capture of a Russian agent in Donetsk.