Kathrine Frich
Ukrainian officials publicised one case they say shows how easily narratives can be manipulated.
The claim centres on a bounty, a supposed killing, and an unexpected payout.
According to the Daily Express, Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) said it ran an operation that led Russia to pay out about $470,000 (£370,000) after believing a targeted figure had been killed.
Bounty and dissident
HUR said the payout was linked to Denis Kapustin, described in the report as a prominent anti-Putin Russian fighting for Ukraine and the founder of the Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK) in 2022.
The Daily Express reported that Russia believed Kapustin was killed in a drone strike on December 27 and paid the reward after news of his death spread.
RDK appeared to confirm the death on Telegram, posting:
“We will definitely take revenge, Denis. Your legacy lives on.”
Video on new year
HUR later released a video on New Year’s Day showing Mr Kaputsin alive.
In the clip, military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov greets him by saying “welcome back to life,” according to the report.
Budanov added:
“First of all, Mr Denis, congratulations on your return to life. That is always a pleasure. I am glad that the money allocated for your assassination was used to support our struggle.”
HUR said the funds would be used to support Ukraine’s war effort.
Sources: Daily Express
