Sourced fact
The News
BBC documentaries have revealed rare insights into secret intelligence operations carried out by Russians working for Ukrainian military intelligence. According to the documentary, one of them, referred to as Ivan, claims to have participated in Ukrainian drone operations targeting weapons factories and strategic pilots in Russia. The other, known as Foma, states that he continuously monitors Russian officers targeted by Ukrainian intelligence but insists that he does not personally participate in attacks.
The Ukrainian military intelligence (GUR) confirmed that both men work for them, but acknowledged that they cannot verify all the details of their activities. When asked by a Ukrainian intelligence official about the level of trust in Ivan, he replied, "I trust no one but myself."
Ivan and Foma confirm that they oppose Russia's war in Ukraine and believe that the future of Russian President Vladimir Putin depends on the war's outcome. Ivan stated, "If Russia loses the war, the system could fall." He added that he targets weaknesses in the system by gathering intelligence on military sites in Russia.
Foma, on the other hand, works remotely and trains a group of Russian volunteers on how to monitor Russian military officers. He explained to the documentary reporter how to provide intelligence on officers involved in the war in Ukraine. Foma said, "By tracking these individuals, we want to make them feel scared."
Although the exact number of Russian collaborators with Ukraine is unknown, Foma estimates it to be around 300 to 500 people. However, both men emphasize that they avoid harming civilians in their operations and acknowledge the high risks involved.
Analysis & context
Analysis & Context
Analytically, these operations indicate that Ukraine is employing multiple strategies to counter the Russian invasion, including intelligence and covert operations inside Russia. These operations aim to undermine the Russian military and political system from within. In a broader context, these operations highlight the impact of the Russian-Ukrainian war on Russia's internal dynamics, where some individuals are working against the ruling regime. This information also suggests that Ukraine is leveraging the public dissatisfaction in Russia to bolster its military and political efforts.
