IED event in Ukraine on Mon 22nd June 2026

22 June, 11:45 AM

PhotoStory

An improvised explosive device was discovered planted beneath a power generator near an institute in Kyiv's Shevchenkivskyi district (Photo: Security Service of Ukraine)

Investigators revealed that the suspects planted an improvised incendiary device designed to trigger a large-scale fire and explosion near a university building in the capital’s center.

The device was rigged for remote detonation, with the resulting fire intended to engulf the university’s administrative building. The SBU reported that the suspects positioned a camouflaged smartphone across from the attack site to provide live video feed access to Russian handlers.

The perpetrators were identified as two Kyiv residents, ages 34 and 35, who had been recruited by the FSB: a mobilized soldier serving in a specialized security unit and a local marketing specialist.

Investigators established that after planting the device, the men boarded a passenger train to Chernihiv Oblast, planning to cross the border illegally into Belarus via an inflatable boat. Russian handlers promised the operatives safe evacuation and employment with the FSB.

Law enforcement officers detained the men near the Belarus border, seizing smartphones that contained evidence of their operations alongside the inflatable boat intended for the crossing.

SBU investigators have charged the suspects with an attempted terrorist act under Part 2 of Article 15 and Part 1 of Article 258 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, while authorities consider adding treason charges.

The suspects are now in custody and face life imprisonment along with the confiscation of their property.