10 arrested over Russian plot to kill top Ukrainian officials

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseFebruary 20, 2026 at 11:58 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

Ukrainian and Moldovan authorities arrested 10 individuals suspected of plotting to assassinate high-ranking Ukrainian officials on behalf of Russia. The arrests followed a joint investigation, with seven individuals apprehended in Ukraine and three in Moldova, including the alleged organizer. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko stated the group was preparing contract killings of Ukrainian and foreign citizens, with payouts reaching up to $100,000. Authorities conducted 20 searches, seizing weapons, explosives, money, and communication devices used to contact Russian handlers. Moldova confirmed its involvement in the investigation, citing a plot targeting the "physical liquidation" of Ukrainian public figures. Moscow has not yet commented on the allegations.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Moscow 40% Ukrainian Prosecutor General 50% Ruslan Kravchenko ×260% Volodymyr Zelensky 70% Moldova ×380% Russia ×390% Ukraine ×6100%

Keywords

assassination plot 100% ukraine 80% contract killings 80% russia 70% political figures 60% moldova 60% joint investigation 50% law enforcement 50% weapons 40%