The task of the two senior officers recruited by Russia was to provide real-time updates on the location of Zelensky and other senior officials to Russian security forces. In addition, they were tasked with trying to recruit collaborators within the Ukrainian army to help carry out a mission to assassinate Zelensky. This operation was just one of many attempted by Russia since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. There have been previous attempts to locate and execute Zelensky, as well as other senior officials. The Russian army has sent mercenaries and made other attempts to carry out these assassinations.
The original plan was to assassinate Budanov before Orthodox Easter, as a gift to Putin before his inauguration. However, the plan was ultimately unsuccessful. The two senior officers were accused of treason and one was also accused of planning an act of terrorism. They received weapons and support from the Russian security service in carrying out the operation.
The operation highlights the ongoing security threats faced by Ukrainian officials and the need for continued vigilance in protecting them. Despite their best efforts, Russian security forces have not been able to successfully eliminate Zelensky or other senior officials. This incident serves as a reminder that there are still dangers lurking in Ukraine’s political landscape and that it is important for Ukrainian leaders and military officials to remain vigilant against potential threats.
In conclusion, this incident underscores the importance of continued vigilance in protecting Ukrainian leaders and military officials against potential threats from Russia. While Russia may try multiple times to eliminate high-ranking Ukrainian officials, it is important for Ukraine’s government and military leaders to remain vigilant and continue working together to protect themselves against such threats.