10 arrested over Russian plot to kill top Ukrainian officials
South China Morning Post
by Agence France-PresseFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Kyiv reported on Friday that 10 individuals were arrested in Ukraine and Moldova for allegedly planning to assassinate senior Ukrainian officials under orders from Russia. The suspects are accused of plotting to kill high-ranking figures, including President Volodymyr Zelensky and the head of Ukraine’s intelligence service, with some reportedly offered up to $100,000 for carrying out the attacks. This development comes amid ongoing tensions between Kyiv and Moscow, which Russia invaded in 2014. The arrests were made as part of a joint investigative effort by Ukrainian and Moldovan law enforcement.
The plot appears to be part of a broader pattern of Russian interference in Ukraine’s internal affairs. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Russia of orchestrating attempts to destabilize the country through assassination plots and other covert activities. This latest revelation underscores the ongoing efforts by both nations to counter such threats, with Ukrainian officials emphasizing their commitment to protecting national security.
The case highlights the fragile state of relations between Russia and Ukraine, as well as the broader implications for regional stability. While Kyiv has presented evidence linking the suspects to Moscow, it remains unclear whether the Russian government directly sanctioned these actions or if they were carried out independently. The arrests also raise questions about the extent of cross-border collaboration in combating such threats.
For readers interested in global security and geopolitical tensions, this story underscores the high stakes involved in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The attempted assassinations, if proven, would represent a significant escalation in Moscow’s efforts to undermine Kyiv’s leadership. As both countries continue to navigate this precarious situation, the international community remains closely watchful of developments.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026