(Kyiv) – The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the National Police have launched a nationwide information campaign called “Burn the FSB Agent” to combat the recruitment of young people by Russian special services. This effort comes amid reports that more than 450 individuals were detained in 2024 for involvement in arson attacks ordered by the Kremlin’s operatives. The campaign aims to expose the consequences of participating in these crimes while highlighting the methods used by Russian agents to exploit minors online.
One of the campaign’s key tools is a social video directed by the renowned Ukrainian filmmaker Lyubomyr Levytskyi. The video emphasises the inevitability of punishment for those who collaborate with Russian special services. It portrays the story of two minors, a boy and a girl, who were manipulated into committing crimes but were subsequently detained by Ukrainian authorities.
| Year | Arrests Made | Chatbot Reports Received |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 450+ | 1,300+ |
Russian operatives, according to the SBU, have been actively targeting minors on social media platforms, luring them into committing criminal acts such as arson or sabotage with promises of quick money. However, these schemes often lead to arrests and legal consequences instead of financial gain.
Ukraine’s Criminal Code treats crimes such as arson of military property, government facilities, or sabotage as terrorism. These charges carry severe penalties, even for minors. The campaign serves as both a warning and a deterrent, ensuring that those tempted by such offers understand the risks involved.
The video aims to educate viewers about the dangers of Russian recruitment strategies, while reinforcing the message that Ukrainian authorities have successfully apprehended those who commit such acts.
