Man Detained in Kyiv for Sharing Air Defense Positions on Video Faces Up to 8 Years in Prison

Local Resident Apprehended in Kyiv

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has arrested a Kyiv resident who recorded and circulated footage revealing the locations of Ukrainian air defense units via Telegram. He has been formally charged under Part 2 of Article 114-2 of Ukraine’s Criminal Code, which prohibits unauthorized disclosure of Armed Forces’ positions during martial law. Conviction carries a potential sentence of up to eight years behind bars.

SBU’s Warning to the Public

The incriminating video was filmed through the windshield of the suspect’s car and sent to a sanctioned blogger formerly affiliated with Viktor Medvedchuk’s TV channel, currently residing outside Ukrainian-controlled territory. An expert examination ordered by the SBU confirmed that publicly sharing such sensitive military information compromised Ukraine’s national security.

The Security Service urges citizens to:

• refrain from recording or distributing images and videos of enemy attacks;
• avoid posting content depicting the operations of air defense systems or strikes on military and critical infrastructure.

“The SBU consistently investigates the spread of such materials online and holds those responsible accountable. Relevant criminal provisions include imprisonment,” SBU representatives emphasized.

The investigation is being conducted under the supervision of the Kyiv City Prosecutor’s Office.

This incident highlights the critical importance of safeguarding information during wartime, as seemingly harmless videos can have grave consequences for national defense. The Security Service of Ukraine remains vigilant in preventing leaks that could threaten the country’s security and calls on citizens to act responsibly and with caution.

In light of this recent incident, it is crucial for citizens to understand the serious legal implications associated with sharing sensitive military content. As highlighted by local authorities, failing to adhere to these guidelines could result in severe penalties, including potential imprisonment for up to 12 years. To learn more about the risks involved in disseminating footage of military operations, visit the authorities' warning regarding attack footage.