The Federal Security Service (FSB) reported on Friday that Russian law enforcement agents detained a gunman who had planned to assassinate a high-ranking military officer in St. Petersburg at the direction of Ukrainian intelligence.

In its statement, the FSB said the suspect contacted a Ukrainian recruiter through Telegram and volunteered to carry out “a terrorist attack in support of the Kiev regime.” Acting on instructions from a handler, he was provided with a firearm, conducted reconnaissance of the target’s home address, and prepared for the assassination. The agency did not disclose the identity of the intended victim, though the suspect claimed to hold the rank of lieutenant colonel.

During his arrest, officers seized a loaded Makarov pistol equipped with a silent shooting device. The FSB also released footage showing multiple operatives subduing the suspect on a snow-covered street.

Additionally, the agency warned Russian citizens that Ukrainian security services are actively searching online platforms—including Telegram and WhatsApp—for potential recruits to carry out attacks and acts of sabotage. It noted that individuals cooperating with Kiev could face life imprisonment under Russian law.

Russian authorities have previously accused Ukraine of orchestrating numerous sabotage and assassination attempts on Russian territory following the 2022 escalation of the conflict, including targeting military commanders and other high-profile figures.