Lauge Risom Koch 
A foreigner suspected of planning a drone attack in Moscow has been detained by Russian security services near the border with Norway.
The Russian Federal Security Service has detained a foreigner suspected of plotting an attack in Moscow. Authorities claim the individual acted on orders from Ukrainian intelligence agencies. The arrest occurred in the Murmansk region as the suspect attempted to cross the border.
Conducting reconnaissance in Moscow
The suspect allegedly traveled to the capital to gather intelligence. According to a report by Meduza, the individual launched a drone at a railway station to conduct reconnaissance. The surveillance targeted freight trains carrying oil products and administrative buildings.
Following this operation, the suspect flew to the Murmansk region. The individual planned to leave Russia by crossing the border into Norway. Authorities apprehended the suspect for violating border entry regulations.
The security service released a video featuring the detained individual. As reported by Meduza, the suspect speaks Russian and claims expertise in drones, artificial intelligence, and robotics. The suspect stated they had applied to join Ukraine’s territorial defense forces.
Connections to Ukrainian organizations
The detainee admitted to contacting groups aligned with Ukraine. The individual used the messaging application Telegram to establish these communications. These interactions reportedly took place between 2023 and 2026.
The authorities view these contacts as evidence of a coordinated plot. Officials assert the suspect received instructions directly from Ukrainian intelligence. The planned attack aimed to disrupt logistics within the capital.
This detention is part of a broader crackdown by the security service. The agency continues to monitor individuals with ties to Ukrainian organizations. Suspects face charges related to terrorism and border violations.
Uncovering additional drone plots
The security service also disclosed information about a separate operation. According to Meduza, authorities detained eight individuals in June for plotting a separate attack. This group targeted a defense enterprise located in the Moscow region.
The group planned to utilize 35 drones during their operation. Officials stated these devices were equipped with explosives. According to the FSB, the explosives were smuggled into Russia from the European Union.
These incidents highlight the use of unmanned vehicles in planned attacks. The government has increased security measures around defense facilities. Authorities maintain that they are actively neutralizing these threats.
